Well its that time of year where everyone is out shopping, eating, drinking and celebrating their respective holiday in anticipation of the upcoming new year. It also one of the most exctiting times of the year for sports.
At this time in the NBA we begin to see how the playoff races are shaping up. There are usually the teams we know will be top seeds, the teams that will fall into the range of the bottom 5-8 seeds, and the tomato cans of the league. At this point in time the New York Knicks shockingly fall into the category of the 5-8 seeds. Though they are currently not in the top 8 I believe, the Knicks are playing their best basketball in what seems like a decade. They have won 7 of their last 9 and have won 6 straight at home, all without Nate Robinson who may not be on the team too much longer. Gallo is developing into a great all-around player and David Lee is having an All-Star caliber year. I think that the Knicks are finally buying into Mike D'Antoni's system and it is paying huge dividends.
It is around this time of year that the MLB Hot Stove is possibly at its hottest with moves already made, and bigger mooves lying ahead. Much of the talk going into the offseason revolved around the big 3 free agents John Lackey, Jason Bay and Matt Holliday. There was also much talk of the possible move of Roy Halladay. Well so far Halladay is now a Philly and Lackey apart of the Red Sox. The Mets have an offer out to Jason Bay but it seems that Bay does not want to play for the Mets. I think that going after Bay is a mistake for the Mets. He is a below average outfielder and that will not bode well for him in that ballpark. The Yankees fresh of their World Series have been quite busy with re-signing Pettite to a 1 - year deal. They also acquired Curtis Granderson and Javier Vasquez via trade without having to give up much. Granderson instantly upgrades the outfield and brings some lefty pop that the Yankees lost in Damon and Matsui. Javier Vasquez brings stability to the back end of the rotation and should win at least 12-16 games.
Perhaps the most important facet of the sports world at this time of year is the NFL playoff race. There remains 1 undefeated team in the Colts and a number of others have clinched playoff spots. The Jets really Plaxico'd themselves (shot themselves in the foot) with the loss to the Falcons in the final 2 minutes of the game. This is a team that has to learn to pummel inferior teams early and close out close games. Those two areas this year have cost the Jets at the very least 3 wins. Now they are in a 6 way tie at 7-7, while Baltimore and Denver currently occupy the 5 and 6 seeds with records of 8-4. The Jets need to win their final 2 games and they need a lot of help. And it will not be easy as this week they pay a visit to Peyton Manning and the Colts who are 14-0 and have to be thinking about 16-0.
The Giants helped their playoff hopes with a pimp-slapping beat-down of the Redskins in Washington on Monday Night Football. The Giants defense that we have been used to for the past 2 years finally decided to show up in 2009. Keep it up Sheridan, the gameplan against the Skins is the way this defense should have been playing all year. The Giants also need help but their help is much more realistic. The Giants need to win their final 2 games agaist the Panthers and the Vikings and they need either the Cowboys or Packers to lose 1 game. Highly plausible considering the Cowboys December to Misremember history. I'm not buying too much into the win over the Saints, the Saints have been in a lot of close games the past month and I think that the pressure of 16-0 was getting to them. By the way, Eli Manning is having a career year and Steve Smith of the Giants should be in the Pro Bowl.
In other sports news:
Congratualtions to Martin Brodeur who became the NHL's all-time shut out leader and arguably the greatest Goalie ever.
Thank you to the sports radio world who have been able to go a few days with no mention of Tiger Woods, it was getting annoying.
There seems to be a rift between Vikings Head Coach Brad Childress and QB Bret Favre. This is the wrong time for this to be happening, although Favre does seem to be in his annual December decline.
The Bulls had a 35-point lead over the Kings two nights ago with 8 minutes remaining in the 3rd Quarter at home and lost the game, WOW!!!!!!
Well that's it for this edition, the first edition of Jeremy's Weekly Worm. Wishing everyone a safe and happy holliday season and a blessed 2010!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
A RAY OF LIGHT IN THE KNICKS' VICTORY OVER THE SUNS
In a season that has been filled with expected disappointment, there was a glimmer of hope for Knicks fans on the floor last night.
For those who tuned into the 126-99 beatdown of the Suns last night, you saw a glimpse of the kind of player Danilo Gallinari can be. Entering last night's game, the Knicks brought in the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference and were riding a 5-game losing streak. The Suns came in with the League's best record and having scored at least 100 points in every game thus far. With that being said, one would think that it would be the Suns who would dominate the lowly Knicks and blow them out by 27 points. Last night was very different.
The Knicks came out with a level of energy and intensity that we have not seen in a very long time, a level that arguably the best team in the NBA could not come close to even if they were flying in a 747. The Knicks erupted for a 39-point first quarter led by stellar shooting from Gallo, better passing from Larry Hughes, and tremendous hustle from everyone.
The Knicks did not need a double-double from David Lee who finished with 24 points, 8 rebounds, half of which were offensive, and 4 steals. They did not need contribution from Nate Robinson on this night who finished with 0 points, largely due to a great game from Hughes who finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds, 12 assists, and 4 steals. Al Harrington added 22 points on just 8-14 shooting, the number of shots attempted he should be averaging per game, not an attempt higher. The Knicks also got great hustle from Jared Jeffries who had 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 blocked shots. He also took turn in a rotation that saw Wilson Chandler, David Lee, and Jeffries all guard Steve Nash for extended periods of time.
But the story of the night was that this may have been Danilo Gallinari's coming out party. The Italian Stallion led all scorers with 27 points which included 6-12 from 3-point range. Gallo raised his league-leading number of 3-pointers made to 54 with last night's effort. The scoring however, was not the most impressive part of the night. Gallo also had 10 rebounds and 2 blocked shots and seemed very comfortable all over the floor last night. Whether it was sinking jumpers, tracking down long rebounds, or playing defense, Gallo played last night with a confidence and a swagger that Knicks fans have been waiting to see. It showed last night and translated into what was probably the best game of his career thus far.
You also have to give credit to Coach Mike D'Antoni. He knew that this was going to be a tough situation when he took the job to coach the Knicks, and it has been a long and hard trip so far. But in what was his 100th game coaching this franchise, he had the sweetest night of any of the previous 99. Not only did D'Antoni get to see his team execute his offense flawlessly, but he got to see them do it to the team that he built before coming to the Knicks. Although he would never admit it, you have to believe that D'Antoni enjoyed this victory a little more than any other. Afterall, he was fired from the Suns when they brought in Shaq and had to change their philosophy on offense. Now Shaq is gone and running the team is Alvin Gentry, a man who served as an assistant under D'Antoni when he coached the Suns and now operates the exact same system. D'Antoni is the architect and so he knew everything that the Suns were going to do and devised a great game-plan. Putting big bodies on Nash to make him earn all his points and limit his passing was the key to slowing a Suns offense that was held to under 100 points for the first time this season.
Too much cannot be read into one victory because that is all that it is. The Suns had an off night, they even looked like they took the Knicks lightly. The Knicks must now show that they can play at this level with consistency against all opponents. They can start tonight when the go to Orlando to face the Eastern Conference's best team.
For those who tuned into the 126-99 beatdown of the Suns last night, you saw a glimpse of the kind of player Danilo Gallinari can be. Entering last night's game, the Knicks brought in the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference and were riding a 5-game losing streak. The Suns came in with the League's best record and having scored at least 100 points in every game thus far. With that being said, one would think that it would be the Suns who would dominate the lowly Knicks and blow them out by 27 points. Last night was very different.
The Knicks came out with a level of energy and intensity that we have not seen in a very long time, a level that arguably the best team in the NBA could not come close to even if they were flying in a 747. The Knicks erupted for a 39-point first quarter led by stellar shooting from Gallo, better passing from Larry Hughes, and tremendous hustle from everyone.
The Knicks did not need a double-double from David Lee who finished with 24 points, 8 rebounds, half of which were offensive, and 4 steals. They did not need contribution from Nate Robinson on this night who finished with 0 points, largely due to a great game from Hughes who finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds, 12 assists, and 4 steals. Al Harrington added 22 points on just 8-14 shooting, the number of shots attempted he should be averaging per game, not an attempt higher. The Knicks also got great hustle from Jared Jeffries who had 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 blocked shots. He also took turn in a rotation that saw Wilson Chandler, David Lee, and Jeffries all guard Steve Nash for extended periods of time.
But the story of the night was that this may have been Danilo Gallinari's coming out party. The Italian Stallion led all scorers with 27 points which included 6-12 from 3-point range. Gallo raised his league-leading number of 3-pointers made to 54 with last night's effort. The scoring however, was not the most impressive part of the night. Gallo also had 10 rebounds and 2 blocked shots and seemed very comfortable all over the floor last night. Whether it was sinking jumpers, tracking down long rebounds, or playing defense, Gallo played last night with a confidence and a swagger that Knicks fans have been waiting to see. It showed last night and translated into what was probably the best game of his career thus far.
You also have to give credit to Coach Mike D'Antoni. He knew that this was going to be a tough situation when he took the job to coach the Knicks, and it has been a long and hard trip so far. But in what was his 100th game coaching this franchise, he had the sweetest night of any of the previous 99. Not only did D'Antoni get to see his team execute his offense flawlessly, but he got to see them do it to the team that he built before coming to the Knicks. Although he would never admit it, you have to believe that D'Antoni enjoyed this victory a little more than any other. Afterall, he was fired from the Suns when they brought in Shaq and had to change their philosophy on offense. Now Shaq is gone and running the team is Alvin Gentry, a man who served as an assistant under D'Antoni when he coached the Suns and now operates the exact same system. D'Antoni is the architect and so he knew everything that the Suns were going to do and devised a great game-plan. Putting big bodies on Nash to make him earn all his points and limit his passing was the key to slowing a Suns offense that was held to under 100 points for the first time this season.
Too much cannot be read into one victory because that is all that it is. The Suns had an off night, they even looked like they took the Knicks lightly. The Knicks must now show that they can play at this level with consistency against all opponents. They can start tonight when the go to Orlando to face the Eastern Conference's best team.
Monday, November 23, 2009
JETS STRUGGLES CONTINUE
After the Atlanta Falcons did the improbable last year by going to the playoffs with a rookie Head Coach and a rookie QB, the Jets thought they could catch lightning in a bottle with the same formula.
The Atlanta Faclons hired one the most-respected Defensive Coordinators in the league, Mike Smith from the Jacksonville Jaguars, and then with the 3rd pick in the 2008 NFL Draft they selected Matt Ryan. The result, Matt Ryan throws a TD on his first career pass ensue to an 11-5 record with a trip to the postseason. Not bad.
The New York Jets took the exact same approach this past offseason. They hired one of the most-respected Defensive Coordinators in the league, Rex Ryan (or Rex Cryan as they now call him) from the Baltimore Ravens, his father Buddy Ryan the architect of the '85 Bears defense. And then they traded up for the 5th pick in draft which they used to select Mark Sanchez. The result thus far, a 3-0 record that had everyone (mostly the Jets and their coach) putting the Jets in the Super Bowl and having the greatest defense ever. Since that 3-0 record, the Jets are 1-6 and that highly touted defensive got shredded by little Wes Welker for 15 catches and 192 yards. They have been brought back to Earth.
The Jets with their rookie Head Coach and rookie QB stand far from the success of the Falcons last year as they are currently 4-6 and are searching for answers. Mark Sanchez is struggling like most rookies do, throwing 16 interceptions through his first 9 games, he has also become fumble prone, fumbling the ball 9 times this season, losing 3. Its hard to imagine that a rookie QB with such a good running game and defense to lean on has struggled so much.
After doing a lot of trash-talking for their first game with the Patriots, the Jets were man-handled the second time around with Sanchez throwing 4 INT's, 3 of them to one player, and no one on the defense being able to cover Wes Welker. The Jets came out with no energy and no passion from Ryan's teary eyed speech earlier in the week. The only guy from the team that showed up, Darrelle Reevis who held Randy Moss to 5 catches 43 yards and 1 TD, seems to be the only guy who shows up to play week in and week out. They played like a team with no heart, which is one of the problems.
I think that the bigger problem lies with the Rex Ryan. He is who is and I'm not asking him to change, nor should he. But his demeanor and swagger may have had his team and himself believing that they were better than they really are. I mean he is in his first year as a Head Coach, he does have a rookie QB, and most of the guys are playing in the defense for the first time. Not to mention they play in the same division as Tom Brady and the Patriots, the same Conference and Peyton Manning and the Colts, along with teams like the Chargers, Ravens, Steelers, and this year the surprise Bengals.
With all that said and the playoffs out of reach unless by some miracle the Jets run the table and the 6 teams ahead of them for the remaining 2 Wild Card spots all collapse, highly unlikely, they should concentrate on having fun for the remainder of the season. Ryan talked his team into a corner with his big-chested blabbering and the team's 3-0 start. They have failed to live up to the self-hype, and now there are no expectations to fulfill this season. So relax and go have fun, there is not much else to do. They Jets can't play any worse.
The Atlanta Faclons hired one the most-respected Defensive Coordinators in the league, Mike Smith from the Jacksonville Jaguars, and then with the 3rd pick in the 2008 NFL Draft they selected Matt Ryan. The result, Matt Ryan throws a TD on his first career pass ensue to an 11-5 record with a trip to the postseason. Not bad.
The New York Jets took the exact same approach this past offseason. They hired one of the most-respected Defensive Coordinators in the league, Rex Ryan (or Rex Cryan as they now call him) from the Baltimore Ravens, his father Buddy Ryan the architect of the '85 Bears defense. And then they traded up for the 5th pick in draft which they used to select Mark Sanchez. The result thus far, a 3-0 record that had everyone (mostly the Jets and their coach) putting the Jets in the Super Bowl and having the greatest defense ever. Since that 3-0 record, the Jets are 1-6 and that highly touted defensive got shredded by little Wes Welker for 15 catches and 192 yards. They have been brought back to Earth.
The Jets with their rookie Head Coach and rookie QB stand far from the success of the Falcons last year as they are currently 4-6 and are searching for answers. Mark Sanchez is struggling like most rookies do, throwing 16 interceptions through his first 9 games, he has also become fumble prone, fumbling the ball 9 times this season, losing 3. Its hard to imagine that a rookie QB with such a good running game and defense to lean on has struggled so much.
After doing a lot of trash-talking for their first game with the Patriots, the Jets were man-handled the second time around with Sanchez throwing 4 INT's, 3 of them to one player, and no one on the defense being able to cover Wes Welker. The Jets came out with no energy and no passion from Ryan's teary eyed speech earlier in the week. The only guy from the team that showed up, Darrelle Reevis who held Randy Moss to 5 catches 43 yards and 1 TD, seems to be the only guy who shows up to play week in and week out. They played like a team with no heart, which is one of the problems.
I think that the bigger problem lies with the Rex Ryan. He is who is and I'm not asking him to change, nor should he. But his demeanor and swagger may have had his team and himself believing that they were better than they really are. I mean he is in his first year as a Head Coach, he does have a rookie QB, and most of the guys are playing in the defense for the first time. Not to mention they play in the same division as Tom Brady and the Patriots, the same Conference and Peyton Manning and the Colts, along with teams like the Chargers, Ravens, Steelers, and this year the surprise Bengals.
With all that said and the playoffs out of reach unless by some miracle the Jets run the table and the 6 teams ahead of them for the remaining 2 Wild Card spots all collapse, highly unlikely, they should concentrate on having fun for the remainder of the season. Ryan talked his team into a corner with his big-chested blabbering and the team's 3-0 start. They have failed to live up to the self-hype, and now there are no expectations to fulfill this season. So relax and go have fun, there is not much else to do. They Jets can't play any worse.
GIANTS GET BACK TO WINNING
I am not a homosexual, but I would have kissed Lawrence Tynes smack on the lips after his game-winning 36 yard Field Goal in OT to propel the Giants to a much-needed win if I had the opportunity. This after I wanted to punch him square in the face after he missed a 31 yard FG earlier in the game. But he, and the Giants as a team reddemed themselves this week.
It has been over a month since the New York football Giants have won a game. Oct. 11 at home against the Oakland Raiders was their last victory until yesterday. And while yesterday's win over the Atlanta Falcons was less than stellar, it was still a win, something which the Giants desperately needed.
After beginning the season high with 5 wins, and then going low with four losses, Eli Manning took the Giants on his back and showed everyone why the Giants paid Easy Eli $100 million in the offseason. On a day when the running game was shut down by the Atlanta's defense and the defense could not hold a 14 point lead in the fourth quarter (SURPRISE!!! - memo to you Sheridan), Eli Manning had a career day at Giants Staduim. For the first time in his career Manning threw for over 300 hundred yards at home. His final totals were 25-39, 384 yards, 3 TD's and 1 INT. Manning hit differeny receivers all over the field, and he finally found Kevin Boss in the Red Zone for a pair of scores. Boss who had his best day of the season finished with 5 catches 76 yards and 2 TD's. Mario Manninham also had a big day with 8 receptions for 126 yards including a 29 yards catch and run to setup Tynes for the game-winner in OT. This is the kind of prodcution Manningham can give when he isn't dropping the ball.
I'll give credit to Gilbride who made an honest attempt to restore the running game but the Falcons defense after being gashed the past several weeks decided that the Giants were not going to run on them. But by not abandoning the run too early, the play-action pass was still in effect and Eli torched Atlanta's secondary.
The offensive line needs to get together because they have not been playing like the unit we have been accustomed to seeing the last 2 years. Terrible blocking on both run and pass at times, moreso the running, and uncharacteristic penalties are hurting this them. In fact, penalties by the whole team have really been a problem the last several weeks.
The only down-side to yesterday's win was the defense. Having a 31-17 lead in the 4th Quarter and having to win the game in OT is inexcusable. This is now 2 game in a row that the defense has not been able to hold a lead late in the 4th Quarter. A few questions that I have for one Bill Sheridan, the Giants Defensive Coordinator:
On the last two Falcons drives, where was the rotation on the Defensive Line? As I recall, Tuck, Osi, Kiwanuka, and Robbins were out there for 95% of both drives. What's the point of being 8 or 9 guys deep at that position of not to have guys with fresh legs rushing the passer late in the game? The Falcons were obviously in passing mode being down 14 points in the 4th and so there should have D-Line subs every 2-3 plays. Clint Sintim, Dave Tollefson, Chris Canty, Bsrry Coefield and Rocky Bernard should have been rotated in during the last two drives because it was freakin obvious that the guys that were in there were tired and were getting nowhere close to Matt Ryan.
On a more postive note, I thought Chase Blackburn did a great job at Middle LB in place of Antonio Peirce. He did so on short notice and should get better over the remainder of the year as he gets the reps with the first team. It was good to see Aaron Ross out there. I saw that the Giants used him at Safety and Nickel back. As he gets healthier, I think that Bruce Johnson would be better suited for Safety because he got abused yesterday by Jenkins. Boley has a solid game and showed why we got him, tough assignment for anybody to cover Tony Gonzalez.
Its a short week for the G-Men as they head to Denver to face the struggling Broncos who have dropped 4 in a row for what should be a good game on Thanksgiving night. A quick preview:
Not sure what the health status is of Denver's QB's but that could play a big factor in this game. But no matter who is under center for the Broncos the Giants will need pressure up the middle all game because I don't trust their pass-defense against guys like Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, and Brandon Stokely. Eli will have to be extra careful with the ball against the crafty veteran secondary of the Broncos which yields a unit with Champ Bailey, Ty Law, and Brian Dawkins. Given time, I think that Manningham, Smith, and Nicks can do some damage against those guys. Denver is reeling and the Giants are feeling good after their win, Giants win 38-17.
It has been over a month since the New York football Giants have won a game. Oct. 11 at home against the Oakland Raiders was their last victory until yesterday. And while yesterday's win over the Atlanta Falcons was less than stellar, it was still a win, something which the Giants desperately needed.
After beginning the season high with 5 wins, and then going low with four losses, Eli Manning took the Giants on his back and showed everyone why the Giants paid Easy Eli $100 million in the offseason. On a day when the running game was shut down by the Atlanta's defense and the defense could not hold a 14 point lead in the fourth quarter (SURPRISE!!! - memo to you Sheridan), Eli Manning had a career day at Giants Staduim. For the first time in his career Manning threw for over 300 hundred yards at home. His final totals were 25-39, 384 yards, 3 TD's and 1 INT. Manning hit differeny receivers all over the field, and he finally found Kevin Boss in the Red Zone for a pair of scores. Boss who had his best day of the season finished with 5 catches 76 yards and 2 TD's. Mario Manninham also had a big day with 8 receptions for 126 yards including a 29 yards catch and run to setup Tynes for the game-winner in OT. This is the kind of prodcution Manningham can give when he isn't dropping the ball.
I'll give credit to Gilbride who made an honest attempt to restore the running game but the Falcons defense after being gashed the past several weeks decided that the Giants were not going to run on them. But by not abandoning the run too early, the play-action pass was still in effect and Eli torched Atlanta's secondary.
The offensive line needs to get together because they have not been playing like the unit we have been accustomed to seeing the last 2 years. Terrible blocking on both run and pass at times, moreso the running, and uncharacteristic penalties are hurting this them. In fact, penalties by the whole team have really been a problem the last several weeks.
The only down-side to yesterday's win was the defense. Having a 31-17 lead in the 4th Quarter and having to win the game in OT is inexcusable. This is now 2 game in a row that the defense has not been able to hold a lead late in the 4th Quarter. A few questions that I have for one Bill Sheridan, the Giants Defensive Coordinator:
On the last two Falcons drives, where was the rotation on the Defensive Line? As I recall, Tuck, Osi, Kiwanuka, and Robbins were out there for 95% of both drives. What's the point of being 8 or 9 guys deep at that position of not to have guys with fresh legs rushing the passer late in the game? The Falcons were obviously in passing mode being down 14 points in the 4th and so there should have D-Line subs every 2-3 plays. Clint Sintim, Dave Tollefson, Chris Canty, Bsrry Coefield and Rocky Bernard should have been rotated in during the last two drives because it was freakin obvious that the guys that were in there were tired and were getting nowhere close to Matt Ryan.
On a more postive note, I thought Chase Blackburn did a great job at Middle LB in place of Antonio Peirce. He did so on short notice and should get better over the remainder of the year as he gets the reps with the first team. It was good to see Aaron Ross out there. I saw that the Giants used him at Safety and Nickel back. As he gets healthier, I think that Bruce Johnson would be better suited for Safety because he got abused yesterday by Jenkins. Boley has a solid game and showed why we got him, tough assignment for anybody to cover Tony Gonzalez.
Its a short week for the G-Men as they head to Denver to face the struggling Broncos who have dropped 4 in a row for what should be a good game on Thanksgiving night. A quick preview:
Not sure what the health status is of Denver's QB's but that could play a big factor in this game. But no matter who is under center for the Broncos the Giants will need pressure up the middle all game because I don't trust their pass-defense against guys like Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, and Brandon Stokely. Eli will have to be extra careful with the ball against the crafty veteran secondary of the Broncos which yields a unit with Champ Bailey, Ty Law, and Brian Dawkins. Given time, I think that Manningham, Smith, and Nicks can do some damage against those guys. Denver is reeling and the Giants are feeling good after their win, Giants win 38-17.
Friday, November 20, 2009
IT HAS BEGUN...... MLB FREE AGENCY!!!!!!!
What, you thought Mortal Kombat was starting?????
Officially as of 12:01 AM today the MLB free agency period has started and we have already learned quite a few things that may determine the landscape of the offseason, assuming that everyone is telling the truth; players, agents, and teams.
First, Arte Moreno has made it clear that the Matt Holliday will not be an Angel. Ouch! Boy I'm sure that one really pissed Scott Boras. That takes one of the big 3 in the AL out of the running and now has probably decreased the value on Holliday. Imagine, the Angels said they would pursue Jason Bay instead, a guy who is older and according to just about everybody is a worse fielder. I think it might have something to do with the fact that Bay can hit AL pitching.
Second, John Lackey wants to starts negotiations at the Burnett deal, that is $82.5 million over 5 years is the jumping off point if you want to sign Lackey. And I'll bet a number of teams jumped right off the pursuit for Lackey once that statement was made. There have been talks of him getting Barry Zito money, 7 years $126 million, the Oakland Raiders and Washington Redskins don't exist in the MLB, unless the Mets or some other desperate team makes him that ridiculous offer.
Jason Bay has already turned down a 4-year $60 million dollar offer from the Red Sox. Hard to imagine that a guy who is 31 and considered a sub-par defender would turn down that kind of money and turn down playing in a park that helps his defensive short-comings. Perhaps he and his agent are looking for a 5th year, or they think that Bay is worth 6 figures. Either way, the lack of a market for Holliday could drive the price for Bay up, it seems he is the more wanted man right now.
There are those who say that this year's free agent crop is nothing special compared to last year's or the potential for next year's. And while I agree that there are no instant impact players maybe with the exception of Lackey, there are a lot of players out there that can help teams that are already good.
I'll look for teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Angels, Dodgers, and Phillies to not make splashy headlines with big acquisitions, but rather supplement there already talented rosters with role players that do the small things that are required to win championships. Its only day 1, and there is plenty of more interest in the offseason to go around.
Officially as of 12:01 AM today the MLB free agency period has started and we have already learned quite a few things that may determine the landscape of the offseason, assuming that everyone is telling the truth; players, agents, and teams.
First, Arte Moreno has made it clear that the Matt Holliday will not be an Angel. Ouch! Boy I'm sure that one really pissed Scott Boras. That takes one of the big 3 in the AL out of the running and now has probably decreased the value on Holliday. Imagine, the Angels said they would pursue Jason Bay instead, a guy who is older and according to just about everybody is a worse fielder. I think it might have something to do with the fact that Bay can hit AL pitching.
Second, John Lackey wants to starts negotiations at the Burnett deal, that is $82.5 million over 5 years is the jumping off point if you want to sign Lackey. And I'll bet a number of teams jumped right off the pursuit for Lackey once that statement was made. There have been talks of him getting Barry Zito money, 7 years $126 million, the Oakland Raiders and Washington Redskins don't exist in the MLB, unless the Mets or some other desperate team makes him that ridiculous offer.
Jason Bay has already turned down a 4-year $60 million dollar offer from the Red Sox. Hard to imagine that a guy who is 31 and considered a sub-par defender would turn down that kind of money and turn down playing in a park that helps his defensive short-comings. Perhaps he and his agent are looking for a 5th year, or they think that Bay is worth 6 figures. Either way, the lack of a market for Holliday could drive the price for Bay up, it seems he is the more wanted man right now.
There are those who say that this year's free agent crop is nothing special compared to last year's or the potential for next year's. And while I agree that there are no instant impact players maybe with the exception of Lackey, there are a lot of players out there that can help teams that are already good.
I'll look for teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Angels, Dodgers, and Phillies to not make splashy headlines with big acquisitions, but rather supplement there already talented rosters with role players that do the small things that are required to win championships. Its only day 1, and there is plenty of more interest in the offseason to go around.
KNICKS WON"T SIGN IVERSON
Allen Iverson as it turns out is not the answer for the Knicks. According to ESPN's Chris Sheridan http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4674184, a Knicks team official has said that the Knick will not be making an offer to the free agent guard.
In my opinion, I think the Knicks want to take some time to see how Eddie Curry fits in with the team and how they play with him in the lineup. Curry in his season debut had 10 points in 11 minutes.
There don't seem to be a lot of teams interested in Iverson at the moment and so it is possible that he could still be available in a few weeks time.
In my opinion, I think the Knicks want to take some time to see how Eddie Curry fits in with the team and how they play with him in the lineup. Curry in his season debut had 10 points in 11 minutes.
There don't seem to be a lot of teams interested in Iverson at the moment and so it is possible that he could still be available in a few weeks time.
JETS' SEASON ON THE LINE
Well let's hope that Rex Ryan's tears sparks something in his team because they are going to need every bit of motivation to match the intensity of the New England Patriots this Sunday.
The Jets are reeling, there is no question about it. After beginning the season with a 3-0 record, they have lost 5 of their last 6 and their record now stands at 4-5 and their season down to one game. Now most Jets fans consider the season to be over because of the loss to the Jaguars just 5 days ago. However, I am not Jets fan and do not consider the Jets' season over just yet. Things can definately turn around for them with a victory this week, easier said than done.
I chided the Jets earlier this season for the trash-talking prior to their first meeting with the Patriots, but they did back it up with a win. That was a much different Patriots team than the one the Jets will play this week. In fact, much is different for both teams entering the second meeting:
The Jets are reeling, there is no question about it. After beginning the season with a 3-0 record, they have lost 5 of their last 6 and their record now stands at 4-5 and their season down to one game. Now most Jets fans consider the season to be over because of the loss to the Jaguars just 5 days ago. However, I am not Jets fan and do not consider the Jets' season over just yet. Things can definately turn around for them with a victory this week, easier said than done.
I chided the Jets earlier this season for the trash-talking prior to their first meeting with the Patriots, but they did back it up with a win. That was a much different Patriots team than the one the Jets will play this week. In fact, much is different for both teams entering the second meeting:
- Tom Brady is back to being Tom Brady.
- Mark Sanchez is playing like a rookie.
- The Patriots defense while still not great, is better.
- Wes Welker is back for the Patriots.
- Laurence Maroney is running the ball well.
- The Jets do not have Kris Jenkins or Jim Leonard.
- The Jets do have Braylon Edwards.
- This game is in Foxboro.
- The Patriots are coming off a humiliating defeat against the Colts.
- The Jets are not coming in beating their chests, but rather with their chests beat in.
- The Patriots coach has been criticized for trying to win a game.
- The Jets coach has been laughed at because he cried in front of his team.
- It is in the Patriots head that the Jets already beat them.
But it is the fact that the Patriots are back to being the Patriots that makes this game that much more important for the Jets.
Outside of the division leaders, there are 6 teams; Steelers, Chargers, Ravens, Jaguars, Texans, and Dolphins, that have a better record than the Jets, and they are all competing for 2 playoff spots. The Jets would have to run the table if they had any shot at the post season. Most would say impossible from looking at the Jets in recent weeks. But consider this, should the Jets pull off an incredible upset and beat the Patriots in Foxboro, why can't they run the table?
After a week in which there head coach poured his heart out to the team in an effort to inspire belief in his players, and with their backs against the wall, there is no reason to think that the Jets won't come out and leave everything on the field. And should it yield a victory, the Jets remaining schedule looks like this; vs. Panthers, at Bills, at Bucs, vs. Atlanta, at Colts, vs. Bengals. The first 4 are winnable games, especially if the Jets can ride the momentum of a win against the Patriots. And by the time they play the Colts and Bengals, those teams are likely to have playoff spots and maybe bye weeks sewn up and will probably rest their starters.
It's not impossible, and there are those who dare to imagine. The Jets have not inspired much confidence in their past couple of games, but one upset victory could be the beginning of something amazing. Of course that victory will be anything but easy since the Patriots have the bitter taste of last week's loss as well as the first loss to the Jets in their mouths.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
BASEBALL FREE AGENCY LOOMING
The start of the free-agent period for baseball begins at approximately 12:01AM tonight or tomorrow morning depending how anal you are as a person. And while this year's crop of free-agents is not as star-studded as least year's, there is no shortage of intrigue as far as who is going to go where, or which team is going to do what. In particular, the two New York franchises who have money to spend, holes to fill, and very different free-agent successes.
The Mets have endured a rough 4-year stretch since the ending of the 2006 season the dismal 2009 season. Carlos Beltran looking at strike 3 that sends the Mets home from the playoffs, back-to-back years collapsing down the stretch failing to make the playoffs after having division leads in September, and this past season which was filled with lots of injuries, a new ballpark, and many strange headlines with regard to organizational management blaming their woes on media and wanting to fight their own players. But with the offseason comes new hope.
The Mets have money coming off the books and they have many needs if they are to change the ways of the past three years. And it all starts with pitching. They have the Grand Canyon of ballparks and therefore it is essential for the Mets to add a starter or two behind Johan Santanna and improve a bullpen that simply stinks up until you get to K-Rod. This should make signing both John Lackey and Jason Marquis top priority for the Mets. Marquis has already expressed his desire to come to the Mets and outbidding everyone for Lackey is something the Mets are capable of doing. That would give the Mets a solid 1-2 punch at the top of their rotation and create competition for the 3,4, and 5 spot among Marquis, Niese, Pelfrey, and Maine. The one that doesn't cut the mustard can be used as a long relief option in the bullpen. There are also a slew of quality relievers out there that the Mets should also look into in order to protect the leads that they get. Brandon Lyon and Rafael Betancourt are both capable setup guys who would provide instant improvement to a bullpen that has struggled for 3 years in a row. I know most Mets fans want them to trade for Roy Halladay but the Mets simply cannot do this. They have crippled themselves with similar moves in recent years, Johan Santanna and JJ Putz. To have to trade prospects (the Mets are clearly lacking a quality farm system) and then give a big contract extension is a double-whammy to an organization that cannot take a single-whammy at this point.
If the Mets strengthen their pitching, then there is less emphasis needed on getting a power bat. In that cavernous ballpark, the Mets should emphasize speed and line-drive hitters. Especially because both Jason Bay and Matt Holliday are Type-A free-agents which means that not only would you have to pay them big money, but forfeit draft picks, again double-whammy. With David Wright and Carlos Beltran coming back, the focus should on those second tier free agents that would supplement a lineup that is already pretty decent, when healthy that is. Additions like a Scott Podsednik to left field would provide good defense because of his speed as well as a guy to bat behind Jose Reyes in the 2 spot. Hank Blalock would be a nice addition to platoon first base with Daniel Murphy. Blalock a left bat who hit 25 HR's last year would fit in the 6th or 7th spot.
These move may not be popular, but they are the moves that the Mets should make. Upgrade the pitching staff both starting and the bullpen. The lineup if supplemented correctly through free-agency and with the players that they have, should fit nicely with their ballpark.
The only remaining questions are can Omar Minaya be expected to make the right moves? Nothing he has done recently inspires any faith. The other question is can Jerry Manuel bring a small-ball type strategy to a team that could not do so last year playing with a triple-A team? He used the injury card all year last year, what will be the excuse if the Mets fail this year? Lots of questions and issues surrounding this franchise and hopefully smart decisions starting tomorrow will the beginning of a turn-around.
The Mets have endured a rough 4-year stretch since the ending of the 2006 season the dismal 2009 season. Carlos Beltran looking at strike 3 that sends the Mets home from the playoffs, back-to-back years collapsing down the stretch failing to make the playoffs after having division leads in September, and this past season which was filled with lots of injuries, a new ballpark, and many strange headlines with regard to organizational management blaming their woes on media and wanting to fight their own players. But with the offseason comes new hope.
The Mets have money coming off the books and they have many needs if they are to change the ways of the past three years. And it all starts with pitching. They have the Grand Canyon of ballparks and therefore it is essential for the Mets to add a starter or two behind Johan Santanna and improve a bullpen that simply stinks up until you get to K-Rod. This should make signing both John Lackey and Jason Marquis top priority for the Mets. Marquis has already expressed his desire to come to the Mets and outbidding everyone for Lackey is something the Mets are capable of doing. That would give the Mets a solid 1-2 punch at the top of their rotation and create competition for the 3,4, and 5 spot among Marquis, Niese, Pelfrey, and Maine. The one that doesn't cut the mustard can be used as a long relief option in the bullpen. There are also a slew of quality relievers out there that the Mets should also look into in order to protect the leads that they get. Brandon Lyon and Rafael Betancourt are both capable setup guys who would provide instant improvement to a bullpen that has struggled for 3 years in a row. I know most Mets fans want them to trade for Roy Halladay but the Mets simply cannot do this. They have crippled themselves with similar moves in recent years, Johan Santanna and JJ Putz. To have to trade prospects (the Mets are clearly lacking a quality farm system) and then give a big contract extension is a double-whammy to an organization that cannot take a single-whammy at this point.
If the Mets strengthen their pitching, then there is less emphasis needed on getting a power bat. In that cavernous ballpark, the Mets should emphasize speed and line-drive hitters. Especially because both Jason Bay and Matt Holliday are Type-A free-agents which means that not only would you have to pay them big money, but forfeit draft picks, again double-whammy. With David Wright and Carlos Beltran coming back, the focus should on those second tier free agents that would supplement a lineup that is already pretty decent, when healthy that is. Additions like a Scott Podsednik to left field would provide good defense because of his speed as well as a guy to bat behind Jose Reyes in the 2 spot. Hank Blalock would be a nice addition to platoon first base with Daniel Murphy. Blalock a left bat who hit 25 HR's last year would fit in the 6th or 7th spot.
These move may not be popular, but they are the moves that the Mets should make. Upgrade the pitching staff both starting and the bullpen. The lineup if supplemented correctly through free-agency and with the players that they have, should fit nicely with their ballpark.
The only remaining questions are can Omar Minaya be expected to make the right moves? Nothing he has done recently inspires any faith. The other question is can Jerry Manuel bring a small-ball type strategy to a team that could not do so last year playing with a triple-A team? He used the injury card all year last year, what will be the excuse if the Mets fail this year? Lots of questions and issues surrounding this franchise and hopefully smart decisions starting tomorrow will the beginning of a turn-around.
ALLEN IVERSON: IS HE REALLY THE ANSWER????
For the struggling 2009 Knicks, the answer happens to be "The Answer" Allen Iverson. With Eddie Curry making an impressive debut last night with his slimmed-down self, the Knicks need to sign Iverson to a one-year deal.
Forget all the bullshit coming out of people's mouths that Iverson will hinder the development of the Knicks' young players. BLAH BLAH BLAH!!!! The Knicks cannot get any worse than they are right now. The only thing that Iverson would do is limit the minutes that Larry Hughes and Chris Duhon would get which is a good thing. As Curry works his way back to being the low-post threat the Knicks so desperately need, having Iverson handle the ball with an outside shooter like Gallo would make the Knicks watchable, and dare I say possible contenders among the Eastern Conference bottom-feeders that will be fighting over the 7-8 seeds. The answer is yes!!!!
Mix in the double-double man himself David Lee and some scoring here and there from the likes of Harrington, Chandler, Douglas and Robinson and the Knicks can win games. Not to mention the drive to win that Iverson would bring to this dead-beat team. In addition, signing him to a 1-year deal does not effect the plans of 2010 and his presence on the outside might free up room on the inside for Curry. If Eddie Curry and string together a stretch of games where he shows he can be a legitimate lost-post threat again, Walsh can dangle him out there to teams who are thinking championship and need a Center. Thus freeing up even more cap space, enough to attract 2 stars instead of 1.
Make the deal Walsh and get Iverson here, we know its all about the summer but we Knicks fans are about ready to gouge out eyes out if the team we have been watching is the team we have to watch the rest of the year. The short-term answer is "The Answer", go and get him.
Forget all the bullshit coming out of people's mouths that Iverson will hinder the development of the Knicks' young players. BLAH BLAH BLAH!!!! The Knicks cannot get any worse than they are right now. The only thing that Iverson would do is limit the minutes that Larry Hughes and Chris Duhon would get which is a good thing. As Curry works his way back to being the low-post threat the Knicks so desperately need, having Iverson handle the ball with an outside shooter like Gallo would make the Knicks watchable, and dare I say possible contenders among the Eastern Conference bottom-feeders that will be fighting over the 7-8 seeds. The answer is yes!!!!
Mix in the double-double man himself David Lee and some scoring here and there from the likes of Harrington, Chandler, Douglas and Robinson and the Knicks can win games. Not to mention the drive to win that Iverson would bring to this dead-beat team. In addition, signing him to a 1-year deal does not effect the plans of 2010 and his presence on the outside might free up room on the inside for Curry. If Eddie Curry and string together a stretch of games where he shows he can be a legitimate lost-post threat again, Walsh can dangle him out there to teams who are thinking championship and need a Center. Thus freeing up even more cap space, enough to attract 2 stars instead of 1.
Make the deal Walsh and get Iverson here, we know its all about the summer but we Knicks fans are about ready to gouge out eyes out if the team we have been watching is the team we have to watch the rest of the year. The short-term answer is "The Answer", go and get him.
Monday, November 16, 2009
OH THOSE DREADFUL KNICKS
Since Donnie Walsh has taken over the Knicks, he has said that it is all about getting under the cap and the free-agent class of 2010. As a Knick fan I bought it because of what had transpired in years past that put the franchise in the state that it was in when Walsh took over.
Let's revisit some of the moves and decisions made from years past:
Scott Layden and his decision to give large contracts to the like of aging stars Allan Houston and Larry Johnson crippled the Knicks in the long term as both players were being paid guranteed money long after they were done playing. Couple that with moves of trading Patrick Ewing for I don't even remember who, trading Glenn Rice for the hefty contracts of bum players like Howard Eisley and Shandon Anderson, drafting and then trading Nene for Antonio McDyess who did not play a game as a Knick, and much more. Now as bad as these moves were and as bad a flux the team was in, it was still fixable over a short period of time. Welcome Isaiah Thomas!!
Upon his arrival, he decided that it would be impossible to get under the cap, so he decided to take on as much cap as possible with the least amount of talent possible, while sacrificing future draft picks, a great plan to run a franchise into the ground, even one in New York. The disaster that was the Marbury trade that is still having lingering effects today as the lottery-bound Knicks do not have a first rounder in the coming draft. He took on contracts of Penny Hardaway and sacrificed unprotected first round picks that could have yielded a Brandon Roy or LaMarcus Aldridge (had Chicago with the Knicks picks taken them) for Eddie Curry. While buried in cap he decided to give Jared Jeffries a contract that doubled in value because of the luxury tax. He traded away the expiring contract of Hardaway and the young, talented Trevor Ariza for Steve Francis at the behest of then coach Larry Brown, another brilliant move. The signings of Jerome James and Jamal Crawford, trading for Zach Randolph, and never establishing a true team with any kind of chemistry or core. Enter Donnie Walsh.
His first move was hiring a player-friendly coach in Mike D'Antoni who is friends with just about every player in the NBA except for Stephon Marbury, whoops, I forgot that Marbury is not in the NBA at the current moment. Yet, for some reason that guys keeps yapping his gums about the Knicks, as if he did so much for the team while he was here. And hey Marbury I guess we all missed something, your so good that no team in the NBA wants you. In addition to the hiring of D'Antoni, whose system made Jamal Crawford and Zach Randolph look like All-Star's and tradeable, Donnie Walsh has finally gotten the Knicks under the cap. They are now in a position to target free-agents who can come in and make an instant impact on the team.
The only thing they must do now is play all the young guys. Al Harrington, Larry Hughes, Chris Duhon, Nate Robinson, and/or David Lee are all likely not to be here next year, so why are they getting all of the minutes???? There is this season, and this season alone for LeBron, Wade, Bosh and all the others to see what kind of cast they will they have around them should they come to New York. The starting 5 should include Tony Douglas, Wilson Chandler, Gallo, and Jordan Hill, and they should all be 30-35 minutes a night. This is the year for them to learn and get better. There is no making the playoffs anyway so you might as well get the young guys on the floor as much as possible. That equation only changes if and when Eddie Curry gets back on the floor in hopes that a team like the Jazz, Nuggets, Toronto, or Dallas need a low post presence in their effort to make a run in the playoffs. If the Knicks can get Curry and/or Jeffries off the books, they are guranteed to land 2 free-agents in the summer. Perhaps you could then convince LeBron and Wade to both come here, or some combination of all the stars that will be testing the market.
Play the young guys and lets see what they have to offer. Douglas has impressed, Gallo has shown flashes, Hill the other night looked with the exception of the fouls, and Chandler needs to be on the floor much more if he is to have a breakout game soon. We know that its all about 2010 but you gotta make 2009 somewhat entertaining, this team is not even watchable right now.
Let's revisit some of the moves and decisions made from years past:
Scott Layden and his decision to give large contracts to the like of aging stars Allan Houston and Larry Johnson crippled the Knicks in the long term as both players were being paid guranteed money long after they were done playing. Couple that with moves of trading Patrick Ewing for I don't even remember who, trading Glenn Rice for the hefty contracts of bum players like Howard Eisley and Shandon Anderson, drafting and then trading Nene for Antonio McDyess who did not play a game as a Knick, and much more. Now as bad as these moves were and as bad a flux the team was in, it was still fixable over a short period of time. Welcome Isaiah Thomas!!
Upon his arrival, he decided that it would be impossible to get under the cap, so he decided to take on as much cap as possible with the least amount of talent possible, while sacrificing future draft picks, a great plan to run a franchise into the ground, even one in New York. The disaster that was the Marbury trade that is still having lingering effects today as the lottery-bound Knicks do not have a first rounder in the coming draft. He took on contracts of Penny Hardaway and sacrificed unprotected first round picks that could have yielded a Brandon Roy or LaMarcus Aldridge (had Chicago with the Knicks picks taken them) for Eddie Curry. While buried in cap he decided to give Jared Jeffries a contract that doubled in value because of the luxury tax. He traded away the expiring contract of Hardaway and the young, talented Trevor Ariza for Steve Francis at the behest of then coach Larry Brown, another brilliant move. The signings of Jerome James and Jamal Crawford, trading for Zach Randolph, and never establishing a true team with any kind of chemistry or core. Enter Donnie Walsh.
His first move was hiring a player-friendly coach in Mike D'Antoni who is friends with just about every player in the NBA except for Stephon Marbury, whoops, I forgot that Marbury is not in the NBA at the current moment. Yet, for some reason that guys keeps yapping his gums about the Knicks, as if he did so much for the team while he was here. And hey Marbury I guess we all missed something, your so good that no team in the NBA wants you. In addition to the hiring of D'Antoni, whose system made Jamal Crawford and Zach Randolph look like All-Star's and tradeable, Donnie Walsh has finally gotten the Knicks under the cap. They are now in a position to target free-agents who can come in and make an instant impact on the team.
The only thing they must do now is play all the young guys. Al Harrington, Larry Hughes, Chris Duhon, Nate Robinson, and/or David Lee are all likely not to be here next year, so why are they getting all of the minutes???? There is this season, and this season alone for LeBron, Wade, Bosh and all the others to see what kind of cast they will they have around them should they come to New York. The starting 5 should include Tony Douglas, Wilson Chandler, Gallo, and Jordan Hill, and they should all be 30-35 minutes a night. This is the year for them to learn and get better. There is no making the playoffs anyway so you might as well get the young guys on the floor as much as possible. That equation only changes if and when Eddie Curry gets back on the floor in hopes that a team like the Jazz, Nuggets, Toronto, or Dallas need a low post presence in their effort to make a run in the playoffs. If the Knicks can get Curry and/or Jeffries off the books, they are guranteed to land 2 free-agents in the summer. Perhaps you could then convince LeBron and Wade to both come here, or some combination of all the stars that will be testing the market.
Play the young guys and lets see what they have to offer. Douglas has impressed, Gallo has shown flashes, Hill the other night looked with the exception of the fouls, and Chandler needs to be on the floor much more if he is to have a breakout game soon. We know that its all about 2010 but you gotta make 2009 somewhat entertaining, this team is not even watchable right now.
GIANTS HAVE THEIR BEST WEEK IN A WHILE
Low and behold the New York Giants had their best week since the Oakland Raiders game and they did not even have to step on the field.
This past weekend the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons all lost, and not just their games either. With the losses of Dallas and Philly, the Giants climbed into a second-place tie with the Eagles and are just one game back of the division leading Cowboys. The Eagles may have lost Brian Westbrook for the season due to a concussion and the Cowboys lost OL Marc Columbo for the season to a broken fibula. Meanwhile the Giants were home, and hopefully getting healthy both physically and mentally.
Last week Aaron Ross was able to practice for the first time in ages. We all know how much help the secondary needs right now. Hopefully, this can place Terrell Thomas or Bruce JOhnson permanently at Safety. Boley and Canty, the expensive off-season pickups played against the Chargers to shake off rust and with the extra week should be ready to go the rest of the way. And most importantly, the whole team was away from football and hopefully took the time they needed to relax and not think too much about the 4-game losing streak. Hopefully the coaching staff also got their minds right and came up with a solid gameplan for the Atlanta Falcons.
Speaking of the Falcons, they also lost which dropped them to 5-4, same record as the Giants. More importantly Michael Turner injured his ankle and may be out against the Giants, and Matt Ryan is also struggling at the moment. For the first time this year the Giants have caught a huge break in that they are back in the division race, coming off a bye, and playing a team that may be without its best offensive weapon when it comes to the Meadowlands in 6 days.
Now go out there, beat the Falcons, re-establish yourselves, and make a run at the playoffs like you are capable of doing.
This past weekend the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons all lost, and not just their games either. With the losses of Dallas and Philly, the Giants climbed into a second-place tie with the Eagles and are just one game back of the division leading Cowboys. The Eagles may have lost Brian Westbrook for the season due to a concussion and the Cowboys lost OL Marc Columbo for the season to a broken fibula. Meanwhile the Giants were home, and hopefully getting healthy both physically and mentally.
Last week Aaron Ross was able to practice for the first time in ages. We all know how much help the secondary needs right now. Hopefully, this can place Terrell Thomas or Bruce JOhnson permanently at Safety. Boley and Canty, the expensive off-season pickups played against the Chargers to shake off rust and with the extra week should be ready to go the rest of the way. And most importantly, the whole team was away from football and hopefully took the time they needed to relax and not think too much about the 4-game losing streak. Hopefully the coaching staff also got their minds right and came up with a solid gameplan for the Atlanta Falcons.
Speaking of the Falcons, they also lost which dropped them to 5-4, same record as the Giants. More importantly Michael Turner injured his ankle and may be out against the Giants, and Matt Ryan is also struggling at the moment. For the first time this year the Giants have caught a huge break in that they are back in the division race, coming off a bye, and playing a team that may be without its best offensive weapon when it comes to the Meadowlands in 6 days.
Now go out there, beat the Falcons, re-establish yourselves, and make a run at the playoffs like you are capable of doing.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
WHAT THE YANKEES SHOULD DO NOW
Now that the Yankees have won their 27th World Series, here are some thoughts on the season and what they should do this winter in order to repeat as champs.
This season we saw a lot from these Yankees, the core four were as reliable as ever, especially during the World Series, free agents to-be Damon and Matsui made Yankee personnel decisions even tougher after the playoffs, A-Rod is a completely different player, we saw some young talent develop that could play big roles in the upcoming season, and the the free agents we signed last year have been worth every penny thus far.
Now comes the offseason and the Yankees have some decisions to make about the upcoming season. The Yankeed should let Nady, Molina, Guzman, Hairston, and Hinske walk, all can easily be replaced by younger, better, more athletic players. Cervelli will take up the backup catcher position, Ramiro Pena can serve as a super-utility role-player. The Yankees should make 1-year offers to Pettite and Damon. If and only if Damon does not take the 1-year offer, then make the 1-year offer to Matsui.
I think that Yankees should stay away from Matt Holiday, Jason Bay, John Lackey, and Curtis Granderson. I think that a trade for Roy Halladay is a must. With the Derek Jeter negotiations looming next year, as well as a potential bidding war with Red Sox over Joe Mauer, it would be in the Yankees best interest to acquire Halladay now before they lose out on him to somebody else. Especially if Damon takes a multi-year deal elsewhere and Pettite decides to retire, it makes the most sense. Potential trade chips could be either Joba or Hughes packaged along with: Cano and two minor leaguers, or Melky/Romine or Montero, or Austin Jackson.
A frontline pitching staff of Halladay, CC, AJ, with Wang hopefully back by May and a bullpen with Robertson, Coke, Marte, Hughes/Joba, and Mo, together with the Yankee lineup pretty much guarantees a repeat in 2010.
This season we saw a lot from these Yankees, the core four were as reliable as ever, especially during the World Series, free agents to-be Damon and Matsui made Yankee personnel decisions even tougher after the playoffs, A-Rod is a completely different player, we saw some young talent develop that could play big roles in the upcoming season, and the the free agents we signed last year have been worth every penny thus far.
Now comes the offseason and the Yankees have some decisions to make about the upcoming season. The Yankeed should let Nady, Molina, Guzman, Hairston, and Hinske walk, all can easily be replaced by younger, better, more athletic players. Cervelli will take up the backup catcher position, Ramiro Pena can serve as a super-utility role-player. The Yankees should make 1-year offers to Pettite and Damon. If and only if Damon does not take the 1-year offer, then make the 1-year offer to Matsui.
I think that Yankees should stay away from Matt Holiday, Jason Bay, John Lackey, and Curtis Granderson. I think that a trade for Roy Halladay is a must. With the Derek Jeter negotiations looming next year, as well as a potential bidding war with Red Sox over Joe Mauer, it would be in the Yankees best interest to acquire Halladay now before they lose out on him to somebody else. Especially if Damon takes a multi-year deal elsewhere and Pettite decides to retire, it makes the most sense. Potential trade chips could be either Joba or Hughes packaged along with: Cano and two minor leaguers, or Melky/Romine or Montero, or Austin Jackson.
A frontline pitching staff of Halladay, CC, AJ, with Wang hopefully back by May and a bullpen with Robertson, Coke, Marte, Hughes/Joba, and Mo, together with the Yankee lineup pretty much guarantees a repeat in 2010.
Monday, November 2, 2009
YANKS TAKE A 3-1 SERIES LEAD
Well after 4 games the Yankees lead the Phillies 3 games to 1 in the World Series. And make no bones about it, its all about pitching and a few heads up plays.
After AJ Burnett pitched a gem in Game 2 to help even the series at 1 game apiece, the Yankee bats finally awoke in Game 3, especially that of Nick Swisher's. Andy Pettite easily outpitched Cole Hammels and even had an RBI single himself off of Hammels to score Swisher. The Yankeed bullpen finished the job with Mariano Rivera getting a 6 out save.
Game 4 provided a bit more drama and by far has been the best game in this series thus far. The Yankees jumped out on Joe Blanton for 2 quick runs in the top of the 1st. The Phillies answered with 1 in the bottom of the inning against CC Sabbathia. However, through the rest of the game, every time the Phillies landed a punch, the Yankees would immediately counter-punch, until Johnny Damon delivered a staggering 3-hit combo in the top of 9th, followed by a right-cross by A-Rod, and then the knockout blow by Posada.
You have to like the Phillies aggression with Ryan Howard getting a steal and eventually coming around to score to tie the game at 2. The top of the Phillies lineup has struggled mightly with Rollins, Victorino, and Utley all batting sub .200 for the series and Ryan Howard approaching the dubious strikeout record for a World Series. The Phillies have to find their offense and fast if they want to make this World Series even close.
But referring back to my lead, its been all about pitching. The Phillies got a stellar performance out of Cliff Lee in game 1 where he pitched 9 innings and did not give up an earned run. They won. The next game AJ Burnett pitched 7 innings allowing 1 run, and while Pedro Martinez pitched good, he was outdueled by Burnett, the Yankees won. Game 3 Andy Pettite pitched great and Cole Hammels did not, Yankees win again.
Game 4 was something different. With the Yankees leading 4-3 with 2 out in the 7th inning and Sabbathia still on the hill, Chase Utley steps up to the plate and smacks a solo home-run. Surprise, it's only the third time he has done that off of Sabbathia, but here is the real stat, in this series against Sabbathia Utley is 4-6 with 3 HR's, the rest of the Phillies lineup is 7-45 no HR's. The Phillies have launched 7 HR's in this series, but all have been solo HR's. Pedro Feliz contributed the 7th solo shot off of Joba Chamberlain in the bottom of the 8th after Joba struck out the Werth and Ibanez. Twice the Phillies had a mini - two - out rally. The game was not tied heading into the 9th inning with Brad Lidge taking the mound.
Lidge gets the first two outs against Hideki Matsui and Mr. November Derek Jeter, no easy task in a clutch situation. But then Johnny Damon came to bat and would transpire next is probably one the gratest things to ever happen in the World Series and in baseball history. After a 9-pitch at bat, Damon lines a single to left. With 2 outs and a man on first Mark Teixeira comes up to bat and the Phillies put the shift on Teixeira with him being a pull-hitter from the left side. On the very first pitch to Teixeira Damon takes off for second, the throw to second by Ruiz is late and fielded by third baseman Feliz. Damon is safe at second and with Lidge on the mound and no one to cover third base, Johnny Damon pops to his feet and takes off for third, which he takes with ease. TWO STOLEN BASES ON ONE PITCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!!!! At that the moment the Phillies lost all momentum they had from the game-tying HR to Lidge getting Matsui and Jeter out. Next he hits Teixeira, and then serves a fastball over the plate to A-Rod who line an RBI double to left. Second and third 2 outs. Next Jorge Posada lines a 2 RBI single and gets thrown out trying to take 2nd. Enter Mariano Rivera, Yankees take a 3-1 lead.
Coming into this series these teams were as evenly matched as you could get with minor advantages here and there. But right now the Yankees are simply playing better. They are getting the timely hits, the top of their lineup is producing, and their pitching has been better with the exception of Cliff Lee. Lee take the mound tonight against Burnett which promises to be a duel, but Phillies have their back against the wall and have to literally come out swinging. Their season is on the line, and the Yankees could not be playing better.
After AJ Burnett pitched a gem in Game 2 to help even the series at 1 game apiece, the Yankee bats finally awoke in Game 3, especially that of Nick Swisher's. Andy Pettite easily outpitched Cole Hammels and even had an RBI single himself off of Hammels to score Swisher. The Yankeed bullpen finished the job with Mariano Rivera getting a 6 out save.
Game 4 provided a bit more drama and by far has been the best game in this series thus far. The Yankees jumped out on Joe Blanton for 2 quick runs in the top of the 1st. The Phillies answered with 1 in the bottom of the inning against CC Sabbathia. However, through the rest of the game, every time the Phillies landed a punch, the Yankees would immediately counter-punch, until Johnny Damon delivered a staggering 3-hit combo in the top of 9th, followed by a right-cross by A-Rod, and then the knockout blow by Posada.
You have to like the Phillies aggression with Ryan Howard getting a steal and eventually coming around to score to tie the game at 2. The top of the Phillies lineup has struggled mightly with Rollins, Victorino, and Utley all batting sub .200 for the series and Ryan Howard approaching the dubious strikeout record for a World Series. The Phillies have to find their offense and fast if they want to make this World Series even close.
But referring back to my lead, its been all about pitching. The Phillies got a stellar performance out of Cliff Lee in game 1 where he pitched 9 innings and did not give up an earned run. They won. The next game AJ Burnett pitched 7 innings allowing 1 run, and while Pedro Martinez pitched good, he was outdueled by Burnett, the Yankees won. Game 3 Andy Pettite pitched great and Cole Hammels did not, Yankees win again.
Game 4 was something different. With the Yankees leading 4-3 with 2 out in the 7th inning and Sabbathia still on the hill, Chase Utley steps up to the plate and smacks a solo home-run. Surprise, it's only the third time he has done that off of Sabbathia, but here is the real stat, in this series against Sabbathia Utley is 4-6 with 3 HR's, the rest of the Phillies lineup is 7-45 no HR's. The Phillies have launched 7 HR's in this series, but all have been solo HR's. Pedro Feliz contributed the 7th solo shot off of Joba Chamberlain in the bottom of the 8th after Joba struck out the Werth and Ibanez. Twice the Phillies had a mini - two - out rally. The game was not tied heading into the 9th inning with Brad Lidge taking the mound.
Lidge gets the first two outs against Hideki Matsui and Mr. November Derek Jeter, no easy task in a clutch situation. But then Johnny Damon came to bat and would transpire next is probably one the gratest things to ever happen in the World Series and in baseball history. After a 9-pitch at bat, Damon lines a single to left. With 2 outs and a man on first Mark Teixeira comes up to bat and the Phillies put the shift on Teixeira with him being a pull-hitter from the left side. On the very first pitch to Teixeira Damon takes off for second, the throw to second by Ruiz is late and fielded by third baseman Feliz. Damon is safe at second and with Lidge on the mound and no one to cover third base, Johnny Damon pops to his feet and takes off for third, which he takes with ease. TWO STOLEN BASES ON ONE PITCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!!!! At that the moment the Phillies lost all momentum they had from the game-tying HR to Lidge getting Matsui and Jeter out. Next he hits Teixeira, and then serves a fastball over the plate to A-Rod who line an RBI double to left. Second and third 2 outs. Next Jorge Posada lines a 2 RBI single and gets thrown out trying to take 2nd. Enter Mariano Rivera, Yankees take a 3-1 lead.
Coming into this series these teams were as evenly matched as you could get with minor advantages here and there. But right now the Yankees are simply playing better. They are getting the timely hits, the top of their lineup is producing, and their pitching has been better with the exception of Cliff Lee. Lee take the mound tonight against Burnett which promises to be a duel, but Phillies have their back against the wall and have to literally come out swinging. Their season is on the line, and the Yankees could not be playing better.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
WORLD SERIES GAME 1
Cliff Lee absolutely dominated the Yankees in Game 1 last night. There is just not much else to say about last night's game. He had the Yankees confused and kept them on their heels all night long. Kudos to Jeter to had three hits off Lee.
Sabbathia pitched well. Not as sharp as he had been in the previous three starts but battled throughout the whole game. Was able to get out of a big jam in the 1st inning but never really settled down. The two runs he gave up were on the two worst pitches he threw the entire night. Twice he had 2 strikes on Utley and twice he served him a fastball over the middle of the plate and Utley crushed them both, especially the second one.
Tonight bids the son of the Yankees, Pedro Martinez against A.J. Burnett. Burnett needs to be at the top of his game tonight, much like the his last start minus the first inning. Hinske should be starting in right field tonight, Nick Swisher can get hit by a car for all I care. Knowing Girardi though, it would not surprise me to see Swisher in right, Girardi has some kind of boner for the guy.
Pedro was solid in last outing against the Dodgers however he does not have nearly the same stuff as Lee. The Yankees should be able to pound on Martinez and get him out of the game early. Of course Molina will be in the lineup so it does kind of give Pedro an NL lineup to face with the automatic out at the end. All the more reason that Swisher should ride the pine for this one.
Let's hope that the Yankees even this one up before heading to Philly. Go Yanks!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sabbathia pitched well. Not as sharp as he had been in the previous three starts but battled throughout the whole game. Was able to get out of a big jam in the 1st inning but never really settled down. The two runs he gave up were on the two worst pitches he threw the entire night. Twice he had 2 strikes on Utley and twice he served him a fastball over the middle of the plate and Utley crushed them both, especially the second one.
Tonight bids the son of the Yankees, Pedro Martinez against A.J. Burnett. Burnett needs to be at the top of his game tonight, much like the his last start minus the first inning. Hinske should be starting in right field tonight, Nick Swisher can get hit by a car for all I care. Knowing Girardi though, it would not surprise me to see Swisher in right, Girardi has some kind of boner for the guy.
Pedro was solid in last outing against the Dodgers however he does not have nearly the same stuff as Lee. The Yankees should be able to pound on Martinez and get him out of the game early. Of course Molina will be in the lineup so it does kind of give Pedro an NL lineup to face with the automatic out at the end. All the more reason that Swisher should ride the pine for this one.
Let's hope that the Yankees even this one up before heading to Philly. Go Yanks!!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, October 2, 2009
WEEK 4 in the NFL & PICKS
So in Week 4 the bye weeks begin, we can start to separate the pretenders and contenders, and it is the last hope for any team who has started off poorly to correct the ship and start making a run. Some tougher games to call so I imagine that following my 14-2 week will not go smoothly... we'll make a run at it anyway...
Giants at Chiefs
Giants are still in the "cupcake" part of their schedule. They beat the holy hell out of the Bucs without 8 or so regulars. This week they should be getting Dockery and Nicks back, and Justin Tuck will probably start. Look for Brandon Jacobs to run over a soft Chiefs defense after all the criticsm the guy faced last week in running for 92 yards and a TD. This could be a classic trap game but Tom Coughlin has this team focused after the wat things ended last year. Giants in a route 44-14.
Jets at Saints
This matchup pits the leagues 3rd best defense against the best offense. Should be a shitload of fun watching Drew Brees and the Saints passing offense against the blitzing Jets defense. Look for Greg Williams to harass Mark Sanchez with varied blitzes from everywhere. This marks Jonathan Vilma's first game against the Jets since they traded him so look for him to have a big game. The Jets are away and might have a thin secondary with Lito Sheppard and Donald Strickland both likely out. That does not bode well going up against the Saints wideouts, Saints win 31-17.
Raiders at Texans
Both of these teams have been hard to figure out. Overall the Texans have played better and they are home. Should a tough defensive game. Texans win 20-17.
Titans at Jaguars
I can't imagine a Jeff Fisher team going 0-4, however if they do it might be time to reassert Vince Young at starting QB. Jaguars played well in a win last week but they are a re-building team and the Titans should be angry because they have given away 3 wins by beating themselves. Titans win 21-10.
Ravens at Patriots
This game does not hold the same interest as it did 2 years ago. Brady is still not himself, the status if Wes Welker is uncertain, and the Patriots defense is patchwork. The Ravens defense not as dominant as they once were but they do not have to be thanks to a prolific offense led by Joe Flacco. Ravens win a close game 26-23.
Bengals at Browns
Browns are horrible. Eric Mangini is an idiot. Bengals actually resemble a football team and are playing well. This team is still young and a win over the Steelers last week may have gone to their heads. Nonetheless, they are playing the Browns who named Derek Anderson the starter after he entered last week's game and threw 3 INT's. Smart move. Bengals win 30-21.
Lions at Bears
Yes Detroit actually won a game. But its not going to result in a streak. They go into Chicago and keep it close the entire game. Bears win 27-21.
Bucs at Redskins
I picked the Lions to upset the Redskins last week because of how poorly the Redskins played the week before against the Rams. Clinton Portis is banged up, $100 million dollar man Haynesworth has not made their defense better, and Jim Zorn is a pubic hair away from being fired. The Bucs change at QB should provide some spark to their offense. My upset pick Bucs over Redskins 10-7.
Seahawks at Colts
This game is not even fair. Seahawks have a ton of injuries on both sides of the ball and Peyton Manning looks as good as he's ever been. Colts in a blowout 49-19.
Bills at Dolphins
Dolphins lost Chad Pennington for the year. The Bills are getting Marshawn Lynch back an should be able to have some kind of running game which will open things up downfield for Owens and Evans, if Trent Edwards is upright long enough to get it to them. Bills win 20-10.
Rams at 49ers
Despite Frank Gore being out, the 49ers showed last week that they are a good team and still probably have a bitter taste in their mouths after that last-second loss to the Vikings. Rams are still searching for answers everywhere. 49ers win 28-13.
Cowboys at Broncos
Conventional wisdom says to pick the Cowboys because the Broncos have not really beaten anybody, the Browns, the Raiders and the Bengals by fluke. But, they are 3-0, they are playing good defense and Kyle Orton does not turn the ball over. The Cowboys will porbably be thin at RB which means Romo throwing more which means the greater possibility of INT's. Broncos upset the Cowboys 21-20.
Chargers at Steelers
Chargers are banged up on defense, particularly on the front seven. This should allow the Steelers to find their running game. However, without the long-haired missile Troy Polamalu, Rivers should have a field day throwing to Gates, Chambers, and Jackson. Chargers win 27-17.
Packers at Vikings
Easily the most interesting game of the week. Probably will be the most watched game of the week, no need for me to tell you why. If this one is close as it winds down, expect to see what you saw last week with Favre working last second magic. I don't think it will be that close in the 4th quarter. Green Bay wins 28-20.
Bye Week: Cardinals, Eagles, Falcons, Panthers
Cheers!!!!!
Giants at Chiefs
Giants are still in the "cupcake" part of their schedule. They beat the holy hell out of the Bucs without 8 or so regulars. This week they should be getting Dockery and Nicks back, and Justin Tuck will probably start. Look for Brandon Jacobs to run over a soft Chiefs defense after all the criticsm the guy faced last week in running for 92 yards and a TD. This could be a classic trap game but Tom Coughlin has this team focused after the wat things ended last year. Giants in a route 44-14.
Jets at Saints
This matchup pits the leagues 3rd best defense against the best offense. Should be a shitload of fun watching Drew Brees and the Saints passing offense against the blitzing Jets defense. Look for Greg Williams to harass Mark Sanchez with varied blitzes from everywhere. This marks Jonathan Vilma's first game against the Jets since they traded him so look for him to have a big game. The Jets are away and might have a thin secondary with Lito Sheppard and Donald Strickland both likely out. That does not bode well going up against the Saints wideouts, Saints win 31-17.
Raiders at Texans
Both of these teams have been hard to figure out. Overall the Texans have played better and they are home. Should a tough defensive game. Texans win 20-17.
Titans at Jaguars
I can't imagine a Jeff Fisher team going 0-4, however if they do it might be time to reassert Vince Young at starting QB. Jaguars played well in a win last week but they are a re-building team and the Titans should be angry because they have given away 3 wins by beating themselves. Titans win 21-10.
Ravens at Patriots
This game does not hold the same interest as it did 2 years ago. Brady is still not himself, the status if Wes Welker is uncertain, and the Patriots defense is patchwork. The Ravens defense not as dominant as they once were but they do not have to be thanks to a prolific offense led by Joe Flacco. Ravens win a close game 26-23.
Bengals at Browns
Browns are horrible. Eric Mangini is an idiot. Bengals actually resemble a football team and are playing well. This team is still young and a win over the Steelers last week may have gone to their heads. Nonetheless, they are playing the Browns who named Derek Anderson the starter after he entered last week's game and threw 3 INT's. Smart move. Bengals win 30-21.
Lions at Bears
Yes Detroit actually won a game. But its not going to result in a streak. They go into Chicago and keep it close the entire game. Bears win 27-21.
Bucs at Redskins
I picked the Lions to upset the Redskins last week because of how poorly the Redskins played the week before against the Rams. Clinton Portis is banged up, $100 million dollar man Haynesworth has not made their defense better, and Jim Zorn is a pubic hair away from being fired. The Bucs change at QB should provide some spark to their offense. My upset pick Bucs over Redskins 10-7.
Seahawks at Colts
This game is not even fair. Seahawks have a ton of injuries on both sides of the ball and Peyton Manning looks as good as he's ever been. Colts in a blowout 49-19.
Bills at Dolphins
Dolphins lost Chad Pennington for the year. The Bills are getting Marshawn Lynch back an should be able to have some kind of running game which will open things up downfield for Owens and Evans, if Trent Edwards is upright long enough to get it to them. Bills win 20-10.
Rams at 49ers
Despite Frank Gore being out, the 49ers showed last week that they are a good team and still probably have a bitter taste in their mouths after that last-second loss to the Vikings. Rams are still searching for answers everywhere. 49ers win 28-13.
Cowboys at Broncos
Conventional wisdom says to pick the Cowboys because the Broncos have not really beaten anybody, the Browns, the Raiders and the Bengals by fluke. But, they are 3-0, they are playing good defense and Kyle Orton does not turn the ball over. The Cowboys will porbably be thin at RB which means Romo throwing more which means the greater possibility of INT's. Broncos upset the Cowboys 21-20.
Chargers at Steelers
Chargers are banged up on defense, particularly on the front seven. This should allow the Steelers to find their running game. However, without the long-haired missile Troy Polamalu, Rivers should have a field day throwing to Gates, Chambers, and Jackson. Chargers win 27-17.
Packers at Vikings
Easily the most interesting game of the week. Probably will be the most watched game of the week, no need for me to tell you why. If this one is close as it winds down, expect to see what you saw last week with Favre working last second magic. I don't think it will be that close in the 4th quarter. Green Bay wins 28-20.
Bye Week: Cardinals, Eagles, Falcons, Panthers
Cheers!!!!!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
NFL POWER RANKINGS
It's about time I dabbled in the Power Rankings area of the NFL. So after Week 3 here's what I think.
1. Ravens
2. Giants
3. Colts
4. Vikings
5. Colts
6. Jets
7. Patriots
8. Eagles
9. Packers
10. Falcons
11. 49ers
12. Bengals
13. Broncos
14. Bears
15. Chargers
16. Cowboys
17. Cardinals
18. Steelers
19. Texans
20.Seahawks
21. Jaguars
22. Bills
23. Panthers
24. Titans
25. Dolphins
26. Redskins
27. Lions
28. Raiders
29. Chiefs
30. Bucs
31. Browns
32. Rams
1. Ravens
2. Giants
3. Colts
4. Vikings
5. Colts
6. Jets
7. Patriots
8. Eagles
9. Packers
10. Falcons
11. 49ers
12. Bengals
13. Broncos
14. Bears
15. Chargers
16. Cowboys
17. Cardinals
18. Steelers
19. Texans
20.Seahawks
21. Jaguars
22. Bills
23. Panthers
24. Titans
25. Dolphins
26. Redskins
27. Lions
28. Raiders
29. Chiefs
30. Bucs
31. Browns
32. Rams
NFL WEEK 3 ANALYSIS/REACTION
Week 3 provided for some interesting thoughts on the NFL season thus far. Three division winners from last year have yet to win a game, a couple of teams expected to be be terrible are winning games, and the Detroit Lions have finally won a game. Let's get to it....
My record this week: 14-2 (check Week 3 picks post if you don't believe me)
Bengals beat the Steelers 23-20. The Steelers can't run the ball and the defense is not the same with Troy Polamalu. Carson Palmer is back and the Bengals look to be for real, sould be 3-0 if not for that fluke play in Week 1. This was one of my 2 losses.
Detroit over the Redskins 19-14. Detroit played tough defense and Matthew Stafford it progressing every week. Jim Zorn and Jason Campbell won't be back after this season, Daniel Snyder will go spend another $100 million and the Redskins will be just as bad next year no matter who their coach is.
Packers beat the Rams 36-17. Rams made a mistake not drafting Mark Sanchez. They have no way of taking the pressure off of Steven Jackson. A game that the Packers needed heading into their showdown with the Vikings.
Vikings beat the 49ers 27-24. Yes, Bret Favre still has it throwing the game winning TD with the clock winding down. Tremendous catch by Greg Lewis. 49ers lost Frank Gore in the 1st Quarter and remained competitive the entire game. This team is for real and with one victory over the Cardinals already they just might win the NFC West.
Patriots win over the Falcons 26-10. Tom Brady still getting his footing. He needs to get on the same page as Joey Galloway and Wes Welker needs to get on the field. Anyway, never bet that Bellichick/Brady team will ever lose two games in a row. Matt Ryan and the Falcons are good but they are not on the upper echelon just yet, they could be there by the end of the year.
Jets beat the Titans 24-17. Jets defense continue to play well however they did allow Tennessee to come back with 17 points after taking a 14-0 lead. Mark Sanchez continues to play well, Jets need to run the ball better. Tennessee might want to think about bringing Vince Young in because Kerry Collins looks like a statue in the pocket.
Eagles beat the Chiefs 34-14. Kevin Kolb looks real good. The QB controversy in Philly may between Kolb and McNabb. Good to see Michael Vick out there, but it will take some time for him to be effective. Chiefs coach Todd Haley needs to stop getting into shouting matches with his players on the sideline, they have a lot of young talent and could be good in the years to come.
Giants dominate the Bucs 24-0. Giants look real good. All the talk from those dumb-ass analysts about whose gonna replace Plaxico has gone away. Teams cannot cover Steve Smith and Mario Manningham 1-1 and if they double either 1, the running game is opened up. Giants defense finally all got on the same page. Bucs should have made a QB change at half time, this team is staring at 1-15.
Ravens blowout Browns 34-3. Did this one really surprise anyone. Eric Mandumb-ass is an idiot. Fining a player $1,700 for a bottle of water? WTF?!?!?!?! This team will go 0-16 because he has lost them already. Ravens finally have a dynamic offense to go with a dominant defense. If the Steelers fall out of contention early, the AFC road to the Super Bowl will go through Baltimore.
Jaguars beat the Texans 31-24. These are two teams I can't figure out. They both look, then look terrible. Neither is going anywhere, except that the Jags might be heading out of Jacksonville.
Bears beat the Seahawks 25-19. WTF was up the Seahawks uniforms?!?!?!?! Cutler continues to lead the Bears offense who will have to score with the defense being not as good. The NFC North race will be the most interesting as the season unfolds.
Saints win over the Bills 27-7. No TD's for Drew Brees but the Saints still put up 27. The most dangerous thing is that they got their running game going, which makes the Saints offense that much more dangerous. The no-huddle/T.O. experiment is failing miserably in Buffalo.
Broncos beat the Raiders 23-3. Broncos keep winning but they have beaten two bad teams and got lucky against another. Hard to determine if they are for real or just look against bad teams. Orton does not turn the ball over and the defense is playing well, I am anxious to see them against better teams. Raiders are awful, just awful.
Chargers beat the Dolphins 23-13. Chargers again look unimpressive in a win. They do not look as dominant as they should be. Dolphins' season is over, they are 0-3 and Chad Pennington is out for the year. The only positive that could come out of this is that Chad Henne will give the Dolphins the ability to throw the ball beyond 30 yards downfield.
Colts dominate over the Cardinals 31-10. Peyton Manning is the best QB in the modern Era of the NFL. He loses Marvin Harrison, Anthony Gonzalez is out for a few weeks, and Reggie Wayne gets doubled and he still throws for 3oo yards and 4 TD's. Cardinals need to find a running game. They can't run against a 6-man front which means double teams for Larry Fitz and Boldin.
Cowboys beat the Panthers 21-7. Cowboys defense looked good against a bad offense. Romo and the Dallas offense looked much better against a mediocre defense. Panthers have no running game and no other weapon outside of Steve Smith. Smith was doubled all night and the Panthers could not do anything. I don't know who their backup QB is but it is time to give him a shot. Jake Delhomme looks terrible; no zip on his passes, looks flustered in the pocket, and keeps turning the ball over with interceptions and lost fumbles.
The Dolphins, Titans, and Panthers who all won their divisions last year are all 0-3. This week you have the 3-0 high-powered offense Saints against the 3-0 stifling defense of the Jets. Monday Night Bret Favre as a Viking going against the Packers, a must watch. Other interesting matchup is Baltimore at New England. More later in the week.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!
My record this week: 14-2 (check Week 3 picks post if you don't believe me)
Bengals beat the Steelers 23-20. The Steelers can't run the ball and the defense is not the same with Troy Polamalu. Carson Palmer is back and the Bengals look to be for real, sould be 3-0 if not for that fluke play in Week 1. This was one of my 2 losses.
Detroit over the Redskins 19-14. Detroit played tough defense and Matthew Stafford it progressing every week. Jim Zorn and Jason Campbell won't be back after this season, Daniel Snyder will go spend another $100 million and the Redskins will be just as bad next year no matter who their coach is.
Packers beat the Rams 36-17. Rams made a mistake not drafting Mark Sanchez. They have no way of taking the pressure off of Steven Jackson. A game that the Packers needed heading into their showdown with the Vikings.
Vikings beat the 49ers 27-24. Yes, Bret Favre still has it throwing the game winning TD with the clock winding down. Tremendous catch by Greg Lewis. 49ers lost Frank Gore in the 1st Quarter and remained competitive the entire game. This team is for real and with one victory over the Cardinals already they just might win the NFC West.
Patriots win over the Falcons 26-10. Tom Brady still getting his footing. He needs to get on the same page as Joey Galloway and Wes Welker needs to get on the field. Anyway, never bet that Bellichick/Brady team will ever lose two games in a row. Matt Ryan and the Falcons are good but they are not on the upper echelon just yet, they could be there by the end of the year.
Jets beat the Titans 24-17. Jets defense continue to play well however they did allow Tennessee to come back with 17 points after taking a 14-0 lead. Mark Sanchez continues to play well, Jets need to run the ball better. Tennessee might want to think about bringing Vince Young in because Kerry Collins looks like a statue in the pocket.
Eagles beat the Chiefs 34-14. Kevin Kolb looks real good. The QB controversy in Philly may between Kolb and McNabb. Good to see Michael Vick out there, but it will take some time for him to be effective. Chiefs coach Todd Haley needs to stop getting into shouting matches with his players on the sideline, they have a lot of young talent and could be good in the years to come.
Giants dominate the Bucs 24-0. Giants look real good. All the talk from those dumb-ass analysts about whose gonna replace Plaxico has gone away. Teams cannot cover Steve Smith and Mario Manningham 1-1 and if they double either 1, the running game is opened up. Giants defense finally all got on the same page. Bucs should have made a QB change at half time, this team is staring at 1-15.
Ravens blowout Browns 34-3. Did this one really surprise anyone. Eric Mandumb-ass is an idiot. Fining a player $1,700 for a bottle of water? WTF?!?!?!?! This team will go 0-16 because he has lost them already. Ravens finally have a dynamic offense to go with a dominant defense. If the Steelers fall out of contention early, the AFC road to the Super Bowl will go through Baltimore.
Jaguars beat the Texans 31-24. These are two teams I can't figure out. They both look, then look terrible. Neither is going anywhere, except that the Jags might be heading out of Jacksonville.
Bears beat the Seahawks 25-19. WTF was up the Seahawks uniforms?!?!?!?! Cutler continues to lead the Bears offense who will have to score with the defense being not as good. The NFC North race will be the most interesting as the season unfolds.
Saints win over the Bills 27-7. No TD's for Drew Brees but the Saints still put up 27. The most dangerous thing is that they got their running game going, which makes the Saints offense that much more dangerous. The no-huddle/T.O. experiment is failing miserably in Buffalo.
Broncos beat the Raiders 23-3. Broncos keep winning but they have beaten two bad teams and got lucky against another. Hard to determine if they are for real or just look against bad teams. Orton does not turn the ball over and the defense is playing well, I am anxious to see them against better teams. Raiders are awful, just awful.
Chargers beat the Dolphins 23-13. Chargers again look unimpressive in a win. They do not look as dominant as they should be. Dolphins' season is over, they are 0-3 and Chad Pennington is out for the year. The only positive that could come out of this is that Chad Henne will give the Dolphins the ability to throw the ball beyond 30 yards downfield.
Colts dominate over the Cardinals 31-10. Peyton Manning is the best QB in the modern Era of the NFL. He loses Marvin Harrison, Anthony Gonzalez is out for a few weeks, and Reggie Wayne gets doubled and he still throws for 3oo yards and 4 TD's. Cardinals need to find a running game. They can't run against a 6-man front which means double teams for Larry Fitz and Boldin.
Cowboys beat the Panthers 21-7. Cowboys defense looked good against a bad offense. Romo and the Dallas offense looked much better against a mediocre defense. Panthers have no running game and no other weapon outside of Steve Smith. Smith was doubled all night and the Panthers could not do anything. I don't know who their backup QB is but it is time to give him a shot. Jake Delhomme looks terrible; no zip on his passes, looks flustered in the pocket, and keeps turning the ball over with interceptions and lost fumbles.
The Dolphins, Titans, and Panthers who all won their divisions last year are all 0-3. This week you have the 3-0 high-powered offense Saints against the 3-0 stifling defense of the Jets. Monday Night Bret Favre as a Viking going against the Packers, a must watch. Other interesting matchup is Baltimore at New England. More later in the week.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!
Monday, September 28, 2009
REACTION TO GIANTS vs BUCS
If I didn't know better, I would never have guessed that Giants were injury-ravages heading into their game against the Bucs. Quite a few players were Inactive and Justin Tuck was limited but it did not matter, the Giants wanted dominate and they did just that.
Some will say that they beat a bad team. So what? Isn't that the mark of a good team? To beat teams you are supposed to beat? It is, and the Giants did not just beat the Bucs, they obliterated the Bucs.
The score may have been only 24-0, but it was a decisive 24-0. The Giants came into this game without, Domenik Hixon, Hakeem Nicks, Danny Ware, Chris Canty, Aaron Ross, Kevin Dockery, and Kenny Philips who they just lost for the season. Justin Tuck was not 100% and played only on pass-rushing downs.
It was okay, the Giants got the running game going, the run-defense was stifling and they were able to score in the Green Zone on 2 occasions. Eli Manning continues to show how good he is, Steve Smith is developing into legitimate No. 1 receiver, and the defense finally looked like the Giants defense.
With players getting healthy over the course of the next 2 weeks while the Giants schedule remains soft, this team should be a force to be reckoned with once all the hurt players get back. More on this game tomorrow along with my Week 3 Analysis/Reaction.
Cheers!
Some will say that they beat a bad team. So what? Isn't that the mark of a good team? To beat teams you are supposed to beat? It is, and the Giants did not just beat the Bucs, they obliterated the Bucs.
The score may have been only 24-0, but it was a decisive 24-0. The Giants came into this game without, Domenik Hixon, Hakeem Nicks, Danny Ware, Chris Canty, Aaron Ross, Kevin Dockery, and Kenny Philips who they just lost for the season. Justin Tuck was not 100% and played only on pass-rushing downs.
It was okay, the Giants got the running game going, the run-defense was stifling and they were able to score in the Green Zone on 2 occasions. Eli Manning continues to show how good he is, Steve Smith is developing into legitimate No. 1 receiver, and the defense finally looked like the Giants defense.
With players getting healthy over the course of the next 2 weeks while the Giants schedule remains soft, this team should be a force to be reckoned with once all the hurt players get back. More on this game tomorrow along with my Week 3 Analysis/Reaction.
Cheers!
YANKEES AL EAST CHAMPS ONCE AGAIN!!!!!
It has been two years since the Yankees have been in the playoffs, 2 years since the Yankees have been division champs, and far too long since the Yankees have won a World Series.
This year could be the year. Never mind the air-head critics and Yankee-haters who say "they should win the World Series because they spent so much money," thats a heap of bullshit. The Yankees will win the World Series for one reason, they finally got it right.
Not since the dynasty days have the Yankees had this kind of team. The kind of team that is blended with both a core of veteran talent, an influx of young talent, all pulled together by a steady manager and a desire to win.
In those dynasty years, there was the veteran core of guys like Bernie Williams, Paul O'Neil, David Wells, David Cone, Joe Girardi combined with the influx of young talent, Derek Jeter, Marian Rivera, Jorge Posada, and Andy Pettite among others; all guided by the hand of Joe Torre who understood how to mend the veteran and young talent while keeping a calm and relaxing clubhouse that resulted in winning.
Now, the young talent back then are now the veterans, and added to the mix are Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui, C.C. Sabbathia, A.J. Burnett, Mark Teixeira, A-Rod, and Nick Swisher. The young talent now is Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Phil Coke, Robinson Cano, Melky Cabrera, Alfredo Aceves, and Brett Gardener. This time the managerial hand guiding them is Joe Girardi.
No, Girardi is not Joe Torre, nor should he be. After 3 straight exits from the playoffs in the first round, it was time for a change. After the disastrous moves of acquiring Jose Contreras, Kei Igawa, Randy Johnson, Kevin Brown, and Gary Sheffield, a different approach was needed.
That approach was simple, develop the young talent around the core of veterans and supplement the roster with the best free-agents, not the players with the best resumes, and no matter what, do forsake the farm system for a quick fix.
It was these moves that kept the Yankees season alive after a horrid start which included losing the first 8 games to the Red Sox. Joe Girardi despite being on the hot seat, kept his cool and let the season play out.
The return of A-Rod to the lineup gave an immediate jolt as the lineup was now extended and Teixeira had some protection. The flip at the top of the lineup, switching Damon and Jeter payed huge dividends. Phil Hughes being moved to the bullpen, and his ascent to becoming the bridge to Mariano Rivera. The stellar pitching from Sabbathia and Pettite all year long compunded with a lineup that deserves comparison to the Murder's Row lineup of 1927. The resurgent year of the Captain Derek Jeter who also became the Yankees all-time hits leader passing Lou Gherig.
Take your pick their is justification in it all. This year feels different than years is past. The Yankees are AL East Champs once again, and hopefully, in a couple of weeks I will be here writing about the Yankees being World Series Champs once again.
This year could be the year. Never mind the air-head critics and Yankee-haters who say "they should win the World Series because they spent so much money," thats a heap of bullshit. The Yankees will win the World Series for one reason, they finally got it right.
Not since the dynasty days have the Yankees had this kind of team. The kind of team that is blended with both a core of veteran talent, an influx of young talent, all pulled together by a steady manager and a desire to win.
In those dynasty years, there was the veteran core of guys like Bernie Williams, Paul O'Neil, David Wells, David Cone, Joe Girardi combined with the influx of young talent, Derek Jeter, Marian Rivera, Jorge Posada, and Andy Pettite among others; all guided by the hand of Joe Torre who understood how to mend the veteran and young talent while keeping a calm and relaxing clubhouse that resulted in winning.
Now, the young talent back then are now the veterans, and added to the mix are Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui, C.C. Sabbathia, A.J. Burnett, Mark Teixeira, A-Rod, and Nick Swisher. The young talent now is Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Phil Coke, Robinson Cano, Melky Cabrera, Alfredo Aceves, and Brett Gardener. This time the managerial hand guiding them is Joe Girardi.
No, Girardi is not Joe Torre, nor should he be. After 3 straight exits from the playoffs in the first round, it was time for a change. After the disastrous moves of acquiring Jose Contreras, Kei Igawa, Randy Johnson, Kevin Brown, and Gary Sheffield, a different approach was needed.
That approach was simple, develop the young talent around the core of veterans and supplement the roster with the best free-agents, not the players with the best resumes, and no matter what, do forsake the farm system for a quick fix.
It was these moves that kept the Yankees season alive after a horrid start which included losing the first 8 games to the Red Sox. Joe Girardi despite being on the hot seat, kept his cool and let the season play out.
The return of A-Rod to the lineup gave an immediate jolt as the lineup was now extended and Teixeira had some protection. The flip at the top of the lineup, switching Damon and Jeter payed huge dividends. Phil Hughes being moved to the bullpen, and his ascent to becoming the bridge to Mariano Rivera. The stellar pitching from Sabbathia and Pettite all year long compunded with a lineup that deserves comparison to the Murder's Row lineup of 1927. The resurgent year of the Captain Derek Jeter who also became the Yankees all-time hits leader passing Lou Gherig.
Take your pick their is justification in it all. This year feels different than years is past. The Yankees are AL East Champs once again, and hopefully, in a couple of weeks I will be here writing about the Yankees being World Series Champs once again.
Friday, September 25, 2009
YANKEES-RED SOX SERIES COULD BE AN ALCS PREVIEW
This weekend's series between the Yankees and Red Sox may seem insignificant to most, but the series can be a huge tell-tale for the post-season.
For one, both teams will get to test out their pitching against one another to see who will be reliable come October. For the Yankees, they got an answer with A.J. Burnett from his last 2 outings which were both solid. The latter of the 2 most encouraging because it was on the road against the dreaded Angels. But this weekend is a different animal with the Yankees needing strong outings from both Joba Chamberlain and Andy Pettite in order to put their minds at ease. Joba has struggled this season but throughout his career he has shown the capability to rise to the occasion, and has had a couple of great starts against the Red Sox. For Pettite you know what you are going to get but it is a matter how healthy his shoulder is.
In my opinion the Yankees might be better off going with a combination of Gaudin/Aceves in a Game 4 situation if they make it to the ALCS and/or World Series. I think that a bullpen of Robertson, Coke, Joba, Hughes, and Mo would be unstoppable. It would only require 5 or 6 innings out of your starter, particularly if the Yankees can continue to produce runs.
This series holds importance because it is essentially a playoff series. The Yankees want the sweep so that they can win AL East title that has eluded them the last two years. And while Boston may claim that getting into the postseason via the Wild Card would be satisfactory for them, you know they would love to put a sweep on the Yankees and take the division race down to the wire. For them and Yankees, it is the difference between having a 5 game series with home field against either the Tigers or Twins, or having to face the Angels in a 5 game set starting in Anaheim.
It is also important to see how the new comers and young players perform in what will be a playoff atmosphere this weekend at the new Yankee Stadium. Players such as Billy Wagner, Victor Martinez, and Clay Buccholz for the Red Sox. And players like C.C. Sabbathia, Mark Teixeira, Bret Gardener, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Coke, David Robertson, and Phil Hughes.
The most important performance is that of A-Rod. It may not be October, but he can help his October cause by having a big series like he did in the 4-game sweep back in August. I think that more than anyone, A-Rod needs momentum to carry him into the postseason for him to perform at his best, when it matters most.
Sunday will be a tough day if the Yankees win the first 2 as they will be playing at the same time as both the Giants and the Jets. Should be a great series and hopefully an ALCS preview.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!
For one, both teams will get to test out their pitching against one another to see who will be reliable come October. For the Yankees, they got an answer with A.J. Burnett from his last 2 outings which were both solid. The latter of the 2 most encouraging because it was on the road against the dreaded Angels. But this weekend is a different animal with the Yankees needing strong outings from both Joba Chamberlain and Andy Pettite in order to put their minds at ease. Joba has struggled this season but throughout his career he has shown the capability to rise to the occasion, and has had a couple of great starts against the Red Sox. For Pettite you know what you are going to get but it is a matter how healthy his shoulder is.
In my opinion the Yankees might be better off going with a combination of Gaudin/Aceves in a Game 4 situation if they make it to the ALCS and/or World Series. I think that a bullpen of Robertson, Coke, Joba, Hughes, and Mo would be unstoppable. It would only require 5 or 6 innings out of your starter, particularly if the Yankees can continue to produce runs.
This series holds importance because it is essentially a playoff series. The Yankees want the sweep so that they can win AL East title that has eluded them the last two years. And while Boston may claim that getting into the postseason via the Wild Card would be satisfactory for them, you know they would love to put a sweep on the Yankees and take the division race down to the wire. For them and Yankees, it is the difference between having a 5 game series with home field against either the Tigers or Twins, or having to face the Angels in a 5 game set starting in Anaheim.
It is also important to see how the new comers and young players perform in what will be a playoff atmosphere this weekend at the new Yankee Stadium. Players such as Billy Wagner, Victor Martinez, and Clay Buccholz for the Red Sox. And players like C.C. Sabbathia, Mark Teixeira, Bret Gardener, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Coke, David Robertson, and Phil Hughes.
The most important performance is that of A-Rod. It may not be October, but he can help his October cause by having a big series like he did in the 4-game sweep back in August. I think that more than anyone, A-Rod needs momentum to carry him into the postseason for him to perform at his best, when it matters most.
Sunday will be a tough day if the Yankees win the first 2 as they will be playing at the same time as both the Giants and the Jets. Should be a great series and hopefully an ALCS preview.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!
WEEK 3 IN THE NFL & PICKS
We now come upon Week 3 in the NFL where the games get harder to pick as there are some great games this weekend. It's still to early to distinguish who is for real and who is not but let's make some picks!!!!!
Titans at Jets:
Titans have lossed 2 close games that were virtual opposites in nature. A defensive game against the Steelers and a shoot out against the Texans. You gotta believe that Jeff Fisher is going to get this team right this week. However, they go up against a defense that is just stifling. If I am the Titans, I'd look at the film of the Giants-Ravens game last year where the Giants put over 200+ rush yards on Rex Ryan's defense and look to pound the Jets with Johnson and White. Jets win in a close one, 13-10. Mark Sanchez will have his worst game yet.
Giants at Bucs:
The news that Kenny Phillips is out for the year made me really sad yesterday. The guy just came off the best game of his career and was having an amazing season, 16 tackles, 2 interceptions both which lead the team, and 2 passes defensed. It's bad enough the Giants are already thin in the secondary and on defense as a whole with Tuck likely out and Canty not playing again. Clint Sintim should play this week and probably can be used as a down lineman in pass rushing situations to help with the thin D-Line. The good news is that they play the Bucs, Chiefs, and Raiders over the next 3 weeks, so they can get healthy and still win. The Bucs are bad all over and their coach seems to have no clue of what he is doing. Giants D will go against Derrick Ward, will be great to see him. Giants get the ground game going this week and solve the Green Zone troubles, Giants win big, 35-10.
Steelers at Bengals:
Steelers lost a close a game last week and the Bengals pulled off an upset in Green Bay. If not for that fluke play against Denver, the Bengals are 2-0. Steelers could be in for a long day with no Polamalu to help against OchoCinco. Steelers win a close one, 20-17.
Redskins at Detroit:
My upset special of the week. The Lions played a tough game against the Vikings last week and the Redskins just barely beat a bad Rams teams at home, they could not put up a TD against the Rams. Detroit wins its first game in over a year, 24-13.
Packers at Rams:
Packers inexplicably lost to the Bengals at home last week. The Rams played good enough against the Redskins to win but could not pull it out. Aaron Rodgers is a much better QB than Jason Campbell and Green Bay will blow out the Rams, 31-7.
49ers at Vikings:
This is a very intriguing game. Both teams have good running games, and both teams can stop the run, both of those cancel each other out and so it comes down to the QB's. Favre is old, but I'd take him over Shaun Hill at this point, Hill is getting there, he's not there yet. Vikings in tight game, 21-17.
Falcons at Patriots:
Probably the second best game of the week, the best coming later. Patriots coming off a loss where they were held without a TD and the Falcons are rolling on the superb play of Matt Ryan. I love the Falcons, but they are on the road against an angry Patriots team that will have Wes Welker back, Patriots win 34-24.
Chiefs at Eagles:
The long anticipated wait for Michael Vick is finally over. No McNabb, no Westbrook, and the Eagles should still win. The Chiefs are still growing as a team and will keep this one close. Eagles win 14-9.
Browns at Ravens:
Browns will be lucky if they score, and lucky if Joe Flacco doesn't put up 50 points on them. This one isn't even close, Ravens, 42-3.
Jaguars at Texans:
Texans showed what all the offseason talk was about with a big win over the Titans last week. The Jaguars are in trouble and could be looking for a new city at season's end. Texans win 21-14.
Bears at Sehawks:
Jay Cutler looks like he is finding his groove and I like his weapons Olsen and Knox. Seattle has too many injuries on both sides of the ball to compete in this one. Bears win 30-13.
Saints at Bills:
This one should be a shoot - out with the Bills no huddle offense and Drew Brees continuing his hot play. Kevin Kolb put up 391 yards passing last week with DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Macklin and Kevin Curtis. Imagine what Trent Edwards can do with T.O. and Lee Evans? Drew Brees will shred the Bills defense as he did with Philly's last week. Saints win 45-35.
Broncos at Raiders:
This one pretty much comes down to Kyle Orton being a better QB than JaMarcus Russell. Broncos win 17-10.
Dolphins at Chargers:
Chad Pennington still can't throw deep and that limits what Miami can do offensively. Chargers should load the box to shut down the running game and the Wildcat and Phillip Rivers will take care of the rest. Miami still reeling from losing a winning game last week. Chargers win 27-14.
Colts at Cardinals:
Sunday Night Football for the second week in a row has the game of the week. This one would be much more interesting if the Colts had Anthony Gonzalez. Nonetheless, you have two former League and Super Bowl MVP's at QB, they each have plenty of weapons, and they each are facing sub-par defenses. Makes for Wild West Shoot-Out in Arizona. I'll take Peyton over Warner. Colts win 49-42.
Panthers at Cowboys:
As much as I hate the Cowboys, Jerry Jones, Wade Phillips, and Tony Romo, its hard to imagine that they will lose another nationally televised game at h0me an open their new stadium 0-2. However, with more pressure to win this time because Jerry Jones might blow a gasket if they lose at home again, Tony Romo may play worse than he did last week. If Carolina was so hurt on defense, I would take them to win. Cowboys win 24-21, I won't be surprised in the least if Dallas loses though.
Thats all for now... post on the Yankees Red Sox series coming later today. Back with NFL next week and some NHL stuff.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Titans at Jets:
Titans have lossed 2 close games that were virtual opposites in nature. A defensive game against the Steelers and a shoot out against the Texans. You gotta believe that Jeff Fisher is going to get this team right this week. However, they go up against a defense that is just stifling. If I am the Titans, I'd look at the film of the Giants-Ravens game last year where the Giants put over 200+ rush yards on Rex Ryan's defense and look to pound the Jets with Johnson and White. Jets win in a close one, 13-10. Mark Sanchez will have his worst game yet.
Giants at Bucs:
The news that Kenny Phillips is out for the year made me really sad yesterday. The guy just came off the best game of his career and was having an amazing season, 16 tackles, 2 interceptions both which lead the team, and 2 passes defensed. It's bad enough the Giants are already thin in the secondary and on defense as a whole with Tuck likely out and Canty not playing again. Clint Sintim should play this week and probably can be used as a down lineman in pass rushing situations to help with the thin D-Line. The good news is that they play the Bucs, Chiefs, and Raiders over the next 3 weeks, so they can get healthy and still win. The Bucs are bad all over and their coach seems to have no clue of what he is doing. Giants D will go against Derrick Ward, will be great to see him. Giants get the ground game going this week and solve the Green Zone troubles, Giants win big, 35-10.
Steelers at Bengals:
Steelers lost a close a game last week and the Bengals pulled off an upset in Green Bay. If not for that fluke play against Denver, the Bengals are 2-0. Steelers could be in for a long day with no Polamalu to help against OchoCinco. Steelers win a close one, 20-17.
Redskins at Detroit:
My upset special of the week. The Lions played a tough game against the Vikings last week and the Redskins just barely beat a bad Rams teams at home, they could not put up a TD against the Rams. Detroit wins its first game in over a year, 24-13.
Packers at Rams:
Packers inexplicably lost to the Bengals at home last week. The Rams played good enough against the Redskins to win but could not pull it out. Aaron Rodgers is a much better QB than Jason Campbell and Green Bay will blow out the Rams, 31-7.
49ers at Vikings:
This is a very intriguing game. Both teams have good running games, and both teams can stop the run, both of those cancel each other out and so it comes down to the QB's. Favre is old, but I'd take him over Shaun Hill at this point, Hill is getting there, he's not there yet. Vikings in tight game, 21-17.
Falcons at Patriots:
Probably the second best game of the week, the best coming later. Patriots coming off a loss where they were held without a TD and the Falcons are rolling on the superb play of Matt Ryan. I love the Falcons, but they are on the road against an angry Patriots team that will have Wes Welker back, Patriots win 34-24.
Chiefs at Eagles:
The long anticipated wait for Michael Vick is finally over. No McNabb, no Westbrook, and the Eagles should still win. The Chiefs are still growing as a team and will keep this one close. Eagles win 14-9.
Browns at Ravens:
Browns will be lucky if they score, and lucky if Joe Flacco doesn't put up 50 points on them. This one isn't even close, Ravens, 42-3.
Jaguars at Texans:
Texans showed what all the offseason talk was about with a big win over the Titans last week. The Jaguars are in trouble and could be looking for a new city at season's end. Texans win 21-14.
Bears at Sehawks:
Jay Cutler looks like he is finding his groove and I like his weapons Olsen and Knox. Seattle has too many injuries on both sides of the ball to compete in this one. Bears win 30-13.
Saints at Bills:
This one should be a shoot - out with the Bills no huddle offense and Drew Brees continuing his hot play. Kevin Kolb put up 391 yards passing last week with DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Macklin and Kevin Curtis. Imagine what Trent Edwards can do with T.O. and Lee Evans? Drew Brees will shred the Bills defense as he did with Philly's last week. Saints win 45-35.
Broncos at Raiders:
This one pretty much comes down to Kyle Orton being a better QB than JaMarcus Russell. Broncos win 17-10.
Dolphins at Chargers:
Chad Pennington still can't throw deep and that limits what Miami can do offensively. Chargers should load the box to shut down the running game and the Wildcat and Phillip Rivers will take care of the rest. Miami still reeling from losing a winning game last week. Chargers win 27-14.
Colts at Cardinals:
Sunday Night Football for the second week in a row has the game of the week. This one would be much more interesting if the Colts had Anthony Gonzalez. Nonetheless, you have two former League and Super Bowl MVP's at QB, they each have plenty of weapons, and they each are facing sub-par defenses. Makes for Wild West Shoot-Out in Arizona. I'll take Peyton over Warner. Colts win 49-42.
Panthers at Cowboys:
As much as I hate the Cowboys, Jerry Jones, Wade Phillips, and Tony Romo, its hard to imagine that they will lose another nationally televised game at h0me an open their new stadium 0-2. However, with more pressure to win this time because Jerry Jones might blow a gasket if they lose at home again, Tony Romo may play worse than he did last week. If Carolina was so hurt on defense, I would take them to win. Cowboys win 24-21, I won't be surprised in the least if Dallas loses though.
Thats all for now... post on the Yankees Red Sox series coming later today. Back with NFL next week and some NHL stuff.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
FINALLY THE YANKEES ARE BACK IN THE PLAYOFFS
Okay I know that last year was the first time they missed the playoffs in like 15 years but still, October is not October unless the Yankees are playing baseball. And after last night, that is exactly what they will be doing.
There is still work to do as they must now win the division before they can celebrate. Kudos to the Captian Derek Jeter for putting his foot down on not celebrating until the division crown is had. Which could happen by Sunday with a sweep of the Sox who have blown 2 games in a row against the Royals.
With the post-season roster now the focus of everyone, it is my opinion that both Mitre and Gaudin should be on there and that they should do a combo start in the ALCS Game 4 where they each go in and pitch 3 innings. I think a bullpen with Joba in the 7th, Hughes in the 8th, and Mo in the 9th, with Robertson, Coke, Aceves, and Marte who be awesome. That may be too many pitchers but we will see what Girardi does. Maybe Marte and Mitre get left off, Bruney should not be there!
I am not worried about the Yankee bats, those are fine, it is the bench that Girardi will go with. I think you need Gardener, Hairston, Cevelli, and maybe Pena on the bench for the elements of defense and speed that they bring. I don't see Molina helping in anyway in the playoffs.
Hopefully the Yankees take another game in Anaheim today and get that bugaboo completely off their backs. And by the way, what a home run by A-Rod in the 3rd inning last night, he crushed the shit out of that ball!!!!
More on the Yankees either tomorrow or Friday.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!
There is still work to do as they must now win the division before they can celebrate. Kudos to the Captian Derek Jeter for putting his foot down on not celebrating until the division crown is had. Which could happen by Sunday with a sweep of the Sox who have blown 2 games in a row against the Royals.
With the post-season roster now the focus of everyone, it is my opinion that both Mitre and Gaudin should be on there and that they should do a combo start in the ALCS Game 4 where they each go in and pitch 3 innings. I think a bullpen with Joba in the 7th, Hughes in the 8th, and Mo in the 9th, with Robertson, Coke, Aceves, and Marte who be awesome. That may be too many pitchers but we will see what Girardi does. Maybe Marte and Mitre get left off, Bruney should not be there!
I am not worried about the Yankee bats, those are fine, it is the bench that Girardi will go with. I think you need Gardener, Hairston, Cevelli, and maybe Pena on the bench for the elements of defense and speed that they bring. I don't see Molina helping in anyway in the playoffs.
Hopefully the Yankees take another game in Anaheim today and get that bugaboo completely off their backs. And by the way, what a home run by A-Rod in the 3rd inning last night, he crushed the shit out of that ball!!!!
More on the Yankees either tomorrow or Friday.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
WEEK 2 ANALYSIS/REACTION
Well Week 2 in the NFL was just as wild, if not wilder than Week 1. You had the opening of the new Cowboys Stadium, which I wrote about yesterday, Drew Brees stays hot Tom Brady was not, the Broncos are 2-0 and the Titans are 0-2, and a team pulled off a win having the ball less than one quarter of the game! Pretty Amazing shit!!!!!
My predictions were pretty decent as I went 12-4 in my picks. These are straight picks of winners and losers, no spread involved.
First off I completely whiffed on the Jets-Patriots game. I had the Patriots putting up 34 and the Jets putting up 17, boy was I wrong. The Patriots didn't make it into the endzone once and the just mustered only 16 against an injury-ravaged Patriots defense. My hat goes off to Rex Ryan and the Jets defense, those guys look serious. Wes Welker being out really flustered my prediction as I felt that he could have offset some of the Jets blitzes with quick screens. The re-match in Foxboro should be a great one.
The other 3 that I lossed were all complete upsets. Who would have thought that Jay Cutler would come back after a horrid performance against Green Bay to beat the defending SB champs? Certainly not me. Next, the Bengals go into Green Bay and beat the Packers, wow, and OchoCinco got his Lambaeu Leap. It's games like these that makes it hard for me to believe in Green Bay as a serious contender. The final game that I lost was the Texan putting up 34 on the Titans defense. After the way they performed lst week and with the Titans beating themselves against the Steelers, I thought Tennessee would run away with this one. They better right there ship and soon.
The wins:
I had the Saints beating the McNabbless Eagles by at least 14 and they won by 16, Drew Brees is simply amazing and may be on the path to pass Brady's 50 TD passes from 2007, Colston may be in line to break Moss's 23 TD's from that same year. Kolb put up good numbers, but too many mistakes, Eagles need a healthy Westbrook or they are done, what happened to the almighty Philly Defense from Week 1? I guess its harder to play against a QB who can actually throw the ball to his receivers.
Vikings beat the Lions, this was a given although I expected much bigger numbers from Adrian Peterson,
Ravens beat the Chargers, Joe Flacco is the real deal, and why San Diego on 4th down with the game on the line are you running a draw up the middle at Ray Lewis?
Bills beat the Bucs, T.O. had a big drop but redeemed himself, Bucs are a terrible team.
Falcons beat the Panthers, Panthers played better than last week but it was no match for the Falcons. Matt Ryan and Tony Gonzalez are getting along very nicely.
Raiders beat the Chiefs by 3. Jamarcus Russell had an ugly game, when is this guy going to put it all together?
Cardinals bounced back from a Week 1 loss to beat the Jaguars. Kurt Warner's completion percentage was a new record, does that really surprise anyone?
49ers look to be for real, we will have to see once they play some tougher teams, but you can't go wrong with a tough defense and an offense that revolves around Frank Gore.
I said that the Redskins would beat the Rams just barely, and well 9-7 is just barely. Redskins look terrible the first two weeks, I might have to take Detroit against them this week as an upset.
Broncos go to 2-0 beating up a bad Browns team, Mangini fining a player for leaving a hotel without paying for a bottle of water? The guy is a complete JACK ASS and should be out of the NFL once this season is over, he has no business being a Head Coach.
Look to yesterday's post for comments about the Giants-Cowboys game.
Peyton Manning is amazing, what more is there to say? Having possession of the ball for less than 15 minutes and pulling out a win on the road, simply amazing. On the other side, Colts defense looked pretty bad, they had better hope that Bob Sanders gets back soon and that the offense can stay on the field longer, otherwise this defense will be burnt to the ground by Week 10.
Stay tuned as Thursday I'll preview the Jets and Giants Week 3 games and give my NFL predictions on Friday. Yankees post coming either later today or tomorrow.
Cheers!!!!!!!
My predictions were pretty decent as I went 12-4 in my picks. These are straight picks of winners and losers, no spread involved.
First off I completely whiffed on the Jets-Patriots game. I had the Patriots putting up 34 and the Jets putting up 17, boy was I wrong. The Patriots didn't make it into the endzone once and the just mustered only 16 against an injury-ravaged Patriots defense. My hat goes off to Rex Ryan and the Jets defense, those guys look serious. Wes Welker being out really flustered my prediction as I felt that he could have offset some of the Jets blitzes with quick screens. The re-match in Foxboro should be a great one.
The other 3 that I lossed were all complete upsets. Who would have thought that Jay Cutler would come back after a horrid performance against Green Bay to beat the defending SB champs? Certainly not me. Next, the Bengals go into Green Bay and beat the Packers, wow, and OchoCinco got his Lambaeu Leap. It's games like these that makes it hard for me to believe in Green Bay as a serious contender. The final game that I lost was the Texan putting up 34 on the Titans defense. After the way they performed lst week and with the Titans beating themselves against the Steelers, I thought Tennessee would run away with this one. They better right there ship and soon.
The wins:
I had the Saints beating the McNabbless Eagles by at least 14 and they won by 16, Drew Brees is simply amazing and may be on the path to pass Brady's 50 TD passes from 2007, Colston may be in line to break Moss's 23 TD's from that same year. Kolb put up good numbers, but too many mistakes, Eagles need a healthy Westbrook or they are done, what happened to the almighty Philly Defense from Week 1? I guess its harder to play against a QB who can actually throw the ball to his receivers.
Vikings beat the Lions, this was a given although I expected much bigger numbers from Adrian Peterson,
Ravens beat the Chargers, Joe Flacco is the real deal, and why San Diego on 4th down with the game on the line are you running a draw up the middle at Ray Lewis?
Bills beat the Bucs, T.O. had a big drop but redeemed himself, Bucs are a terrible team.
Falcons beat the Panthers, Panthers played better than last week but it was no match for the Falcons. Matt Ryan and Tony Gonzalez are getting along very nicely.
Raiders beat the Chiefs by 3. Jamarcus Russell had an ugly game, when is this guy going to put it all together?
Cardinals bounced back from a Week 1 loss to beat the Jaguars. Kurt Warner's completion percentage was a new record, does that really surprise anyone?
49ers look to be for real, we will have to see once they play some tougher teams, but you can't go wrong with a tough defense and an offense that revolves around Frank Gore.
I said that the Redskins would beat the Rams just barely, and well 9-7 is just barely. Redskins look terrible the first two weeks, I might have to take Detroit against them this week as an upset.
Broncos go to 2-0 beating up a bad Browns team, Mangini fining a player for leaving a hotel without paying for a bottle of water? The guy is a complete JACK ASS and should be out of the NFL once this season is over, he has no business being a Head Coach.
Look to yesterday's post for comments about the Giants-Cowboys game.
Peyton Manning is amazing, what more is there to say? Having possession of the ball for less than 15 minutes and pulling out a win on the road, simply amazing. On the other side, Colts defense looked pretty bad, they had better hope that Bob Sanders gets back soon and that the offense can stay on the field longer, otherwise this defense will be burnt to the ground by Week 10.
Stay tuned as Thursday I'll preview the Jets and Giants Week 3 games and give my NFL predictions on Friday. Yankees post coming either later today or tomorrow.
Cheers!!!!!!!
Monday, September 21, 2009
REACTION FROM LAST NIGHT'S GIANTS-COWBOYS GAME
What a way to open a brand new, billion dollar stadium huh Jerry? Eat shit and die Mr. Jerry Jones, and the same can go for all those Cowboys fans who love to talk a big game about their team and their pretty-boy QB who has yet to accomplish anything meaningful in his pathetic career.
For all the hoopla about Jerry and his new stadium, how much it costs, and the rancor scoreboard, HOW BOUT YA PUT A TEAM ON THAT EXPENSIVE FIELD THAT CAN WIN A MEANINGFUL GAME?!?!?!?!?
The Dallas Cowboys, America's Team, what a heap of foul-smelling BULLSHIT! America's Team does not close out their old stadium and open their new one with such pathetic performances. Say all you want about the Cowboys running the ball, it got easy when the Giants lossed Tuck, after already being short of Chris Canty and Aaron Ross. Go to Hell Flozell Adams, his fat ass can't pass block so he trips people. He should be fined and suspended because after he injured Tuck, he tried doing it again to Osi.
The running game was the only thing working for Dallas. Sure they stopped the run, all that did was allow the entire nation to see that the Giants DO HAVE RECEIVERS!!! UP YOURS to all the critics during the off-season who claimed that the Giants would miss Plaxico "I shot myself in the leg" Burress. So much for a talented Dallas secondary, Mario Manninham and Steve Smith ran circles around Newman, Scandrick and Jenkins all night. Speaking of secondaries, how about a banged Giants secondary picking of Romo 3 times, granted one of them was a fluke, but still a great play. Bruce Johnson, the undrafted rookie gets a pick 6. And Kenny Phillips on a bum knee get 2, one which should have been a pick 6. Big ups to Corey Webster shutting down another NFC East number 1 receiver, did Roy Williams even play last night?
And how about the performance of Eli Manning? Anyone out there still doubting the contract extension he got? Hmmm..? The opening of another team's stadium, nationally televised, 105, thousand plus on hand and cool, Easy Eli drives the Giants down from their own 15 yard line with 1st and 20 and 3 miutes left on the clock, down the field to set up the game-winning field goal by Lawrence "Big Game" Tynes. After watching the 2007 Super Bowl run and then last night's game, I am convinced that nothing phases Eli Manning, by the way, last night was his 12th career 4th Quarter comeback victory, CHOKE ON THAT ELI HATERS!
And of course you cannot say enough about Manningham and Smith. Steve Smith made big catch after big catch. And the move ankle-breaking move he put on Scandrick on his TD play, wow did Scandrick look like a silly basterd who just got crossed by Allen Iverson. Mario Manningham had his official coming out party. His TD catch was AMAZING as was his performance. I think Hixon drops back to the 3rd receiver for now, and he might go down to 4 once Hakeem Nicks gets back, which is not a bad thing considering he could be of more use as a Kick Returner right now.
A few final thoughts;
I hope the Giants keep their concentration for the next 3 weeks as they have 3 easy games against the Bucs, Cheifs, and Raiders.
Hopefully during this stretch the Giants can get healthy. Tuck said he'd play next week. I'm hoping the same for Canty and Ross. Nicks and Ware need to get back, but its not urgent.
In my opinion, Danny Clark is becoming more and more of liability on defense. I would like to see Chase Blackburn and Bryan Kehl get more time on the field. Both are younger, faster and hungrier. The Giants also need to solve their Red Zone troubles. They have to score TD's and not settle for Field Goals. My question in this is where is Ramses Barden when we get inside the 10 yard line? They drafted him because he 6'6 and can be a Red Zone target, and we did no t see him once with the offense last night. Kevin Boss needs to be more invloved, as does Travis Beckum. All three of those guys can pose mismatches near the end zone.
The Giants need to be done with Sinorice Moss. If he is not going to be on the field with the offense, just trade him for whatever you can get or cut. He is a horrible return man and having 7 receivers makes no sense when there are injuries to both the defensive line and the secondary.
More tomorrow about my picks from this weekend, other games and a look at the Yankees important week against the Angels and Red Sox.
Cheers!
For all the hoopla about Jerry and his new stadium, how much it costs, and the rancor scoreboard, HOW BOUT YA PUT A TEAM ON THAT EXPENSIVE FIELD THAT CAN WIN A MEANINGFUL GAME?!?!?!?!?
The Dallas Cowboys, America's Team, what a heap of foul-smelling BULLSHIT! America's Team does not close out their old stadium and open their new one with such pathetic performances. Say all you want about the Cowboys running the ball, it got easy when the Giants lossed Tuck, after already being short of Chris Canty and Aaron Ross. Go to Hell Flozell Adams, his fat ass can't pass block so he trips people. He should be fined and suspended because after he injured Tuck, he tried doing it again to Osi.
The running game was the only thing working for Dallas. Sure they stopped the run, all that did was allow the entire nation to see that the Giants DO HAVE RECEIVERS!!! UP YOURS to all the critics during the off-season who claimed that the Giants would miss Plaxico "I shot myself in the leg" Burress. So much for a talented Dallas secondary, Mario Manninham and Steve Smith ran circles around Newman, Scandrick and Jenkins all night. Speaking of secondaries, how about a banged Giants secondary picking of Romo 3 times, granted one of them was a fluke, but still a great play. Bruce Johnson, the undrafted rookie gets a pick 6. And Kenny Phillips on a bum knee get 2, one which should have been a pick 6. Big ups to Corey Webster shutting down another NFC East number 1 receiver, did Roy Williams even play last night?
And how about the performance of Eli Manning? Anyone out there still doubting the contract extension he got? Hmmm..? The opening of another team's stadium, nationally televised, 105, thousand plus on hand and cool, Easy Eli drives the Giants down from their own 15 yard line with 1st and 20 and 3 miutes left on the clock, down the field to set up the game-winning field goal by Lawrence "Big Game" Tynes. After watching the 2007 Super Bowl run and then last night's game, I am convinced that nothing phases Eli Manning, by the way, last night was his 12th career 4th Quarter comeback victory, CHOKE ON THAT ELI HATERS!
And of course you cannot say enough about Manningham and Smith. Steve Smith made big catch after big catch. And the move ankle-breaking move he put on Scandrick on his TD play, wow did Scandrick look like a silly basterd who just got crossed by Allen Iverson. Mario Manningham had his official coming out party. His TD catch was AMAZING as was his performance. I think Hixon drops back to the 3rd receiver for now, and he might go down to 4 once Hakeem Nicks gets back, which is not a bad thing considering he could be of more use as a Kick Returner right now.
A few final thoughts;
I hope the Giants keep their concentration for the next 3 weeks as they have 3 easy games against the Bucs, Cheifs, and Raiders.
Hopefully during this stretch the Giants can get healthy. Tuck said he'd play next week. I'm hoping the same for Canty and Ross. Nicks and Ware need to get back, but its not urgent.
In my opinion, Danny Clark is becoming more and more of liability on defense. I would like to see Chase Blackburn and Bryan Kehl get more time on the field. Both are younger, faster and hungrier. The Giants also need to solve their Red Zone troubles. They have to score TD's and not settle for Field Goals. My question in this is where is Ramses Barden when we get inside the 10 yard line? They drafted him because he 6'6 and can be a Red Zone target, and we did no t see him once with the offense last night. Kevin Boss needs to be more invloved, as does Travis Beckum. All three of those guys can pose mismatches near the end zone.
The Giants need to be done with Sinorice Moss. If he is not going to be on the field with the offense, just trade him for whatever you can get or cut. He is a horrible return man and having 7 receivers makes no sense when there are injuries to both the defensive line and the secondary.
More tomorrow about my picks from this weekend, other games and a look at the Yankees important week against the Angels and Red Sox.
Cheers!
Friday, September 18, 2009
WEEK 2 IN THE NFL
Week 1 was in the 2009 NFL season was pretty good. You had all kinds of action and games. There were blowouts, close games, and wild finishes. Let's hope that Week 2 brings more of the same.
The New York Jets will play host this week to the New England Patriots. After an imppressive win over the not so impressive Texans, the Jets seem a little cocky. Maybe a little too cocky and have been doing a lot of talk during this week with regard to what they want to do to the Patriots. I agree with Tom Brady, talk is cheap. Before you go running your mouth (ahem, Kerry Rhodes) about wanting to embarass the Patriots, how about you just get a win in your building against them, where they have beat you 8 straight times. I like the confidence of the Jets, but to think that a thrashing of the Texans is going to translate into a thrashing of the Patriots is huge mistake. For 1, the Patriots don't have just 1 wide receiver like the Texans, so doubling Moss won't do anything because that leaves room for Welker, Galloway, Watson, and Chris Baker, thats right the former Jets Tight End who will have a huge impact on this game. Not to mention what Bill Belichick does to rookie QB's with his defense. My advice to the Jets, shut up, run the ball as much as you can, and keep both safeties deep to prevent the long ball, the Bart Scott and David Harris can take care of the underneath stuff.
Prediction: Patriots 34, Jets 17
On Sunday Night Football, the Giants will visit the Cowboys and their new stadium in what is perhaps the game of the week, with Jets Patriots a close second. This game should be very interesting. Dallas put very good numbers last week as they dominated the Bucs, only problem is that the Bucs are one of the worst teams in the league because of the major transition they are undergoing. The Giants last week dominated the Redskins at home, even though the score did not indicate it with stellar play from the D-Line and with a severely banged up secondary. The key to this game for both teams is to establish the run to prevent each team's pass rush from teeing off on the opposing Quarterback. The Giants' Chris Canty, the former Cowboy and Aaron Ross will miss the game. The Giants defense should be stout nonetheless, the only concern I think that there is for the Giants is the Dallas Tight Ends, Jason Witten and Martellus Bennett. With how poor the Dallas defense looked last week, the Giants should be able to run the ball effectively and control the clock, the Dallas secondary can be had and so with a good running game, Eli should be able to pick them apart. This one could turn into a shootout real fast but I suspect that it won't. This game could go either way.
Prediction: Giants 24, Dallas 21
The Rest of the Games:
Give the me the Falcons over the Panthers. Jake Delhomme looked like he was hurt las week as there was nothing on his throws. Matt Ryan is the next big thing in the NFL.
I'll take the Vikings over the Lions. This one is a gimme. Adrian Peterson should run for 400 yards and 8 TD's against the pathetic Lions.
I'll take the Packers over the Bengals. Aaron Rodgers is on his way to being a star and the Green Bay defense looked awesome in its new 3-4 scheme last Sunday. I feel bad for Carson Palmer, such a good QB, ravaged by injuries and a stink team around him. HARD KNOCKS didn't fool me, this team is bad.
Titans over the Texans. Titans beat themselves last week against the Steelers, that won't happen again. It's hard to believe that Matt Schaub was one of the most sought after QB's a couple of seasons ago, he looked terrible last week.
For two teams that were supposed to be in the pits this year, both the Raiders and Chiefs surprised me last week. Raiders run game and defense looked pretty good against the Chargers and should look good again. Raiders over the Chiefs.
The Eagles looked and played up to all the offseason hype last week against a bad Panthers team. Now McNabb is hurt and they face the almighty Drew Brees and the Saints passing attack. No McNabb, no Philly win, Saints over the Eagles by at least 14.
I love Steve Spagnuolo as a coach but his team is just awful. Then again the Redskins are pretty awful themselves, but they have more talent at more positions so I take them by default. Redskins barely over the Rams.
The defending NFC champions got off to a bad start with a loss to divisional rival 49ers last week. Breaston may not play and Boldin is hurting and the Jags nearly pulled off the upset against the Colts. I can't see Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald going 0-2. Cardinals over the Jaguars.
A big win for the 49ers last week should have their confidence up this week. Mike Singletary won't let it go to their heads and have them ready to go again. The Seahawks beat up on a bad Rams team last week and are a little banged up on defense. 49ers over the Seahawks.
Bills lost a heartbreaker last week. They have no one to blame but themselves as they lead by 11 with about 4 minutes left. They should be angry this week and the Bucs are miserable on defense. Edwards should have a similar day to Romo with T.O. and Lee Evans at his disposal against a swiss cheese secondary. Bill win big over Bucs.
Both the Steelers and Bears lost their best defender last week. The Bears lost Brian Urlacher for the year and the Steelers lost Troy Polamalu for 3-6 weeks after his one man show in the first quarter of last week's game againt the Titans. Steelers can survive the short-term without Polamalu because of Big Ben. A bounce back performance from Cutler won't be enough. Steelers over Bears in a game of field goals.
Broncos and Browns is matchup of AFC uglies. Broncos got as lucky as you can get with the way they won over the Bengals. Browns are still trying to tackle Adrian Peterson. Mangini is an idiot, plain and simple. Josh McDaniels starts off 2-0. Broncos over Browns.
It's a new era in Baltimore with Joe Flacco at the helm. Everybody was wondering how the Ravens would replace Bart Scott and Jim Leonard, they replaced them with a ton of offense. The Chargers looked very average against the Raiders. Ravens blowout the Chargers.
Monday Night Football presents the Colts and the Dolphins. The Colts lost Anthony Gonzales for a while but when has losing a starting receiver ever stopped Peyton Manning. He still has Reggie Wayne who is a close second to Larry Fitzgerald as the best receiver in the league. The Dolphins won't sneak up on anybody this year, much like the Tampa Bay Rays didn't. Colts over the Dolphins.
That's all for now. Be back on Tuesday to anaylze Week 2 and see how my predictions went.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!
The New York Jets will play host this week to the New England Patriots. After an imppressive win over the not so impressive Texans, the Jets seem a little cocky. Maybe a little too cocky and have been doing a lot of talk during this week with regard to what they want to do to the Patriots. I agree with Tom Brady, talk is cheap. Before you go running your mouth (ahem, Kerry Rhodes) about wanting to embarass the Patriots, how about you just get a win in your building against them, where they have beat you 8 straight times. I like the confidence of the Jets, but to think that a thrashing of the Texans is going to translate into a thrashing of the Patriots is huge mistake. For 1, the Patriots don't have just 1 wide receiver like the Texans, so doubling Moss won't do anything because that leaves room for Welker, Galloway, Watson, and Chris Baker, thats right the former Jets Tight End who will have a huge impact on this game. Not to mention what Bill Belichick does to rookie QB's with his defense. My advice to the Jets, shut up, run the ball as much as you can, and keep both safeties deep to prevent the long ball, the Bart Scott and David Harris can take care of the underneath stuff.
Prediction: Patriots 34, Jets 17
On Sunday Night Football, the Giants will visit the Cowboys and their new stadium in what is perhaps the game of the week, with Jets Patriots a close second. This game should be very interesting. Dallas put very good numbers last week as they dominated the Bucs, only problem is that the Bucs are one of the worst teams in the league because of the major transition they are undergoing. The Giants last week dominated the Redskins at home, even though the score did not indicate it with stellar play from the D-Line and with a severely banged up secondary. The key to this game for both teams is to establish the run to prevent each team's pass rush from teeing off on the opposing Quarterback. The Giants' Chris Canty, the former Cowboy and Aaron Ross will miss the game. The Giants defense should be stout nonetheless, the only concern I think that there is for the Giants is the Dallas Tight Ends, Jason Witten and Martellus Bennett. With how poor the Dallas defense looked last week, the Giants should be able to run the ball effectively and control the clock, the Dallas secondary can be had and so with a good running game, Eli should be able to pick them apart. This one could turn into a shootout real fast but I suspect that it won't. This game could go either way.
Prediction: Giants 24, Dallas 21
The Rest of the Games:
Give the me the Falcons over the Panthers. Jake Delhomme looked like he was hurt las week as there was nothing on his throws. Matt Ryan is the next big thing in the NFL.
I'll take the Vikings over the Lions. This one is a gimme. Adrian Peterson should run for 400 yards and 8 TD's against the pathetic Lions.
I'll take the Packers over the Bengals. Aaron Rodgers is on his way to being a star and the Green Bay defense looked awesome in its new 3-4 scheme last Sunday. I feel bad for Carson Palmer, such a good QB, ravaged by injuries and a stink team around him. HARD KNOCKS didn't fool me, this team is bad.
Titans over the Texans. Titans beat themselves last week against the Steelers, that won't happen again. It's hard to believe that Matt Schaub was one of the most sought after QB's a couple of seasons ago, he looked terrible last week.
For two teams that were supposed to be in the pits this year, both the Raiders and Chiefs surprised me last week. Raiders run game and defense looked pretty good against the Chargers and should look good again. Raiders over the Chiefs.
The Eagles looked and played up to all the offseason hype last week against a bad Panthers team. Now McNabb is hurt and they face the almighty Drew Brees and the Saints passing attack. No McNabb, no Philly win, Saints over the Eagles by at least 14.
I love Steve Spagnuolo as a coach but his team is just awful. Then again the Redskins are pretty awful themselves, but they have more talent at more positions so I take them by default. Redskins barely over the Rams.
The defending NFC champions got off to a bad start with a loss to divisional rival 49ers last week. Breaston may not play and Boldin is hurting and the Jags nearly pulled off the upset against the Colts. I can't see Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald going 0-2. Cardinals over the Jaguars.
A big win for the 49ers last week should have their confidence up this week. Mike Singletary won't let it go to their heads and have them ready to go again. The Seahawks beat up on a bad Rams team last week and are a little banged up on defense. 49ers over the Seahawks.
Bills lost a heartbreaker last week. They have no one to blame but themselves as they lead by 11 with about 4 minutes left. They should be angry this week and the Bucs are miserable on defense. Edwards should have a similar day to Romo with T.O. and Lee Evans at his disposal against a swiss cheese secondary. Bill win big over Bucs.
Both the Steelers and Bears lost their best defender last week. The Bears lost Brian Urlacher for the year and the Steelers lost Troy Polamalu for 3-6 weeks after his one man show in the first quarter of last week's game againt the Titans. Steelers can survive the short-term without Polamalu because of Big Ben. A bounce back performance from Cutler won't be enough. Steelers over Bears in a game of field goals.
Broncos and Browns is matchup of AFC uglies. Broncos got as lucky as you can get with the way they won over the Bengals. Browns are still trying to tackle Adrian Peterson. Mangini is an idiot, plain and simple. Josh McDaniels starts off 2-0. Broncos over Browns.
It's a new era in Baltimore with Joe Flacco at the helm. Everybody was wondering how the Ravens would replace Bart Scott and Jim Leonard, they replaced them with a ton of offense. The Chargers looked very average against the Raiders. Ravens blowout the Chargers.
Monday Night Football presents the Colts and the Dolphins. The Colts lost Anthony Gonzales for a while but when has losing a starting receiver ever stopped Peyton Manning. He still has Reggie Wayne who is a close second to Larry Fitzgerald as the best receiver in the league. The Dolphins won't sneak up on anybody this year, much like the Tampa Bay Rays didn't. Colts over the Dolphins.
That's all for now. Be back on Tuesday to anaylze Week 2 and see how my predictions went.
Cheers!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
HEY GIRARDI: LET"S SEE MORE CERVELLI!!!!
Last night had to be amazing for Francisco Cervelli. What a year this kid has had! Being called up because of the injuries to Posada and Molina and playing his butt off during his time in the Majors. A solid fielder and calls a great game. People forget that it was him behind the plate for C.C.'s 4-hit shut out against the Orioles. And he is not nearly the liability that Molina is at the plate. He is always busting it down the line every time he makes contact whether it is a hit to the outfield or a grounder. It was very sad to see him get demoted once Molina was healthy again.
But now he is back with the expansion of the rosters and after last night's walk-off single that helped the Yankees to a 5-4 win over Toronto, I think that he should start the next two games that Posada is suspended and should be on the playoff roster instead of Molina. Last night he showed that he is not afraid of the big moment and that he can actually produce in that situation, two characteristics that are essential for any player to succeed while wearing the Yankee pinstripes. Once the playoffs begin, you techincally only need one catcher but I believe that you have to have one on the bench in case of an injury or anything kind of emergency. Most people when it comes to the playoffs would rather go with experience than youth in the post-season but this year I feel differently. Cervelli adds a dimension that Molina does not have, speed. And with Yankees almost certainly detined to matchup against either the Angels or the Red Sox, you need those guys on the bench that can create havoc on the base paths.
I think it would be for the best of Cervelli and the Yankee organization to give this kid a taste of the post-season now, you know by his play that he will appreciate it. Let him get a chance to play under the ultimate spotlight of October. And then next season you have Posada take him under his wing for the year and groom him to be a Yankee catcher of the future. It starts with letting him play in October.
But now he is back with the expansion of the rosters and after last night's walk-off single that helped the Yankees to a 5-4 win over Toronto, I think that he should start the next two games that Posada is suspended and should be on the playoff roster instead of Molina. Last night he showed that he is not afraid of the big moment and that he can actually produce in that situation, two characteristics that are essential for any player to succeed while wearing the Yankee pinstripes. Once the playoffs begin, you techincally only need one catcher but I believe that you have to have one on the bench in case of an injury or anything kind of emergency. Most people when it comes to the playoffs would rather go with experience than youth in the post-season but this year I feel differently. Cervelli adds a dimension that Molina does not have, speed. And with Yankees almost certainly detined to matchup against either the Angels or the Red Sox, you need those guys on the bench that can create havoc on the base paths.
I think it would be for the best of Cervelli and the Yankee organization to give this kid a taste of the post-season now, you know by his play that he will appreciate it. Let him get a chance to play under the ultimate spotlight of October. And then next season you have Posada take him under his wing for the year and groom him to be a Yankee catcher of the future. It starts with letting him play in October.
Monday, September 14, 2009
ROUND UP OF RECENT EVENTS
Hello all, it's been a while since I've posted anything, been real busy but theres lots to talk about so lets get into it.
Before I get into football, lets talk baseball.
The Yankees are looking as strong as I've seen them in the last 6 or 7 years. From top to bottom this whole team is clicking and are setting themselves up for a huge October. Only concerns right now are the lack-luster performances by A.J. Burnett. With probably two more starts before the post-season, he needs to get his chit together. I also hope that the "Joba Rules" have not messed with Joba's head and that he can perform well in the playoffs. I sure hope that Dave Robertson can make it back from injury by the start of the playoffs. He has really stepped it up this year and do not want to see Bruney or Edwar Ramirez on the playoff roster. I think a bullpen of Mitre, Gaudin, Marte, Aceves, Robertson, Coke, Hughes and Mariano is solid and should be able to get the job done. Especially is Joba is in the pen in the ALDS. If the Yankees can carry the high-powered offense into the post-season, then they will dominate, this lineup is too good for them not to score runs, especially when they get into the opposing bullpen. And with the likes of Gardner, Hinske, and Hairston on the bench, the Yankees will have a lot of versatility...
As for the Mets, all I can say is that they let their own park get into their heads. It seems that every other team has no problem belting home runs out of there except them. Meanwhile, Pedro's gem yesterday was salt in the wound as Minaya probably wanted to cry watching that game. All the Mets can hope for is that Minaya starts using his brain this offseason because he has not been doing so in the past. The talk that they might bring back Sheffield and Delgado has to make you wonder why Minaya is in baseball altogether...
Onto the NFL...
The Jets were impressive yesterday with a dominant defense and mark Sanchez playing exceptional in his first career game against the Texans. The running game took a while to get going but it did and the Jets came away with a win. Darrelle Reevis is one of the best corners in the league and Bart Scott is an animal. Scott and David Harris combine for one of the best LB tandems in the league. This defense will only get better when Ellis and Pace get back from suspension. Stuckey showed deep play ability and Keller can catch but his blocking has to be better. Overall the Jets looked real good yesterday. However, the real test for this team is in the coming weeks with games against New England, Tennessee, New Orleans and Miami. This opening game has given a new hope and outlook to a franchise that has not been to the Super Bowl in 41 years. Not saying that they will be there this year, but with this defense and Sanchez, they are a mere few years away. Should be a very interesting game next week to see the Jets defense against the Patriots offense.
So much for all the critics who claimed the Giants had no receivers. Steve Smith had 6 catches for 80 yards, Kevin "The" Boss had to big grabs in the 4th quarter, and Mario Manningham showed just a glimpse of what's to come. The running game stuggled most of the day due in part to the Redskins using a lot of 8 men in the box and the double-teaming of Haynesworth but the passing game more than made up for it. Speaking of what' to come, the Giants D-Line was dominant with the exception of the Redskins first running play. Welcome back Osi who had the sack, forced fumble, fumble recovery and return TD all in one play, he did so two years ago against the 49ers. Justin Tuck contiues to show what a beast he is, and his play against the run continues to improve, had a tackle on Clinton Portis that went for a 6-yard loss. The Giants defense wreaked havoc all day and this was without Canty having played in the pre-season, without Michael Boley, and without Clint Sintim who will also be apart of the pass rush. The secondary was thin without Ross and Dockery but it did not matter. Corey Webster showed yesterday why he is a shutdown corner as Santanna Moss was blanketed all day. Kenny Phillips patrolling deep took away any real deep attempts by the Redskins and Terrell Thomas and Bruce Johnson both showed real promise. Hopefully the injuries to Hakeem Nicks and Danny Ware are not to serious as both of those guys could be big time contributors. Looking forward to Giants and Dallas next week in the Cowboys new stadium in Sunday night.
NFL Roundup:
Delhomme's time might be up in Carolina as he and they looked awful yesterday. QB controversy gonna brew up earlier than we expected with the McNabb injury. If he is out for a few weeks and Vick gets the start and performs well in week 3, there could be trouble in Philly.
Drew Brees is insane. Granted it was against the Lions, but 6 TD's in the first game, that's jsut nuts.
Adrian Peterson's name should be Superman. 180 yards rushing an d 3 TD's plus throwing around defenders while doing so, simply amazing.
How bout that Denver Cincinnati finish? What a play!!! Kyle Orton 1-0 with a game winning TD pass, Jay Cutler 0-1 with 4 INT's.
The 49ers pull off big upset agaist the Cardinals in Arizona! I'm not a big believer in projecting a season for a team based on the opening weeks (2007 Giants started 0-2 and won the Super Bowl) but the 49ers might be emerging as a legitimate Wild Card contender and could make a run at the NFC West this year.
The Baltimore Ravens netting 500 yards of offense! WTF? Never in my wildest dreams did I see that coming, I don't think anyone else did either. Joe Flacco is the real deal, they will push the Steelers hard for the division crown, especially if the Steelers falter while Polamalu is out.
Peyton Manning wins another game, nothing new for that guy.
Tonight's games should warm-ups for both teh Patriots and the Chargers. The Bills have no O-Line and T.O. is bound to off tonight while on the sideline watching Brady to Moss for TD's. Chargers play Oakland. Nuff said.
Thats all for now. Be back soon with more Yankees news as they inch closer to clinching the AL East and my predictions for next week's NFL action.
Cheers!
Before I get into football, lets talk baseball.
The Yankees are looking as strong as I've seen them in the last 6 or 7 years. From top to bottom this whole team is clicking and are setting themselves up for a huge October. Only concerns right now are the lack-luster performances by A.J. Burnett. With probably two more starts before the post-season, he needs to get his chit together. I also hope that the "Joba Rules" have not messed with Joba's head and that he can perform well in the playoffs. I sure hope that Dave Robertson can make it back from injury by the start of the playoffs. He has really stepped it up this year and do not want to see Bruney or Edwar Ramirez on the playoff roster. I think a bullpen of Mitre, Gaudin, Marte, Aceves, Robertson, Coke, Hughes and Mariano is solid and should be able to get the job done. Especially is Joba is in the pen in the ALDS. If the Yankees can carry the high-powered offense into the post-season, then they will dominate, this lineup is too good for them not to score runs, especially when they get into the opposing bullpen. And with the likes of Gardner, Hinske, and Hairston on the bench, the Yankees will have a lot of versatility...
As for the Mets, all I can say is that they let their own park get into their heads. It seems that every other team has no problem belting home runs out of there except them. Meanwhile, Pedro's gem yesterday was salt in the wound as Minaya probably wanted to cry watching that game. All the Mets can hope for is that Minaya starts using his brain this offseason because he has not been doing so in the past. The talk that they might bring back Sheffield and Delgado has to make you wonder why Minaya is in baseball altogether...
Onto the NFL...
The Jets were impressive yesterday with a dominant defense and mark Sanchez playing exceptional in his first career game against the Texans. The running game took a while to get going but it did and the Jets came away with a win. Darrelle Reevis is one of the best corners in the league and Bart Scott is an animal. Scott and David Harris combine for one of the best LB tandems in the league. This defense will only get better when Ellis and Pace get back from suspension. Stuckey showed deep play ability and Keller can catch but his blocking has to be better. Overall the Jets looked real good yesterday. However, the real test for this team is in the coming weeks with games against New England, Tennessee, New Orleans and Miami. This opening game has given a new hope and outlook to a franchise that has not been to the Super Bowl in 41 years. Not saying that they will be there this year, but with this defense and Sanchez, they are a mere few years away. Should be a very interesting game next week to see the Jets defense against the Patriots offense.
So much for all the critics who claimed the Giants had no receivers. Steve Smith had 6 catches for 80 yards, Kevin "The" Boss had to big grabs in the 4th quarter, and Mario Manningham showed just a glimpse of what's to come. The running game stuggled most of the day due in part to the Redskins using a lot of 8 men in the box and the double-teaming of Haynesworth but the passing game more than made up for it. Speaking of what' to come, the Giants D-Line was dominant with the exception of the Redskins first running play. Welcome back Osi who had the sack, forced fumble, fumble recovery and return TD all in one play, he did so two years ago against the 49ers. Justin Tuck contiues to show what a beast he is, and his play against the run continues to improve, had a tackle on Clinton Portis that went for a 6-yard loss. The Giants defense wreaked havoc all day and this was without Canty having played in the pre-season, without Michael Boley, and without Clint Sintim who will also be apart of the pass rush. The secondary was thin without Ross and Dockery but it did not matter. Corey Webster showed yesterday why he is a shutdown corner as Santanna Moss was blanketed all day. Kenny Phillips patrolling deep took away any real deep attempts by the Redskins and Terrell Thomas and Bruce Johnson both showed real promise. Hopefully the injuries to Hakeem Nicks and Danny Ware are not to serious as both of those guys could be big time contributors. Looking forward to Giants and Dallas next week in the Cowboys new stadium in Sunday night.
NFL Roundup:
Delhomme's time might be up in Carolina as he and they looked awful yesterday. QB controversy gonna brew up earlier than we expected with the McNabb injury. If he is out for a few weeks and Vick gets the start and performs well in week 3, there could be trouble in Philly.
Drew Brees is insane. Granted it was against the Lions, but 6 TD's in the first game, that's jsut nuts.
Adrian Peterson's name should be Superman. 180 yards rushing an d 3 TD's plus throwing around defenders while doing so, simply amazing.
How bout that Denver Cincinnati finish? What a play!!! Kyle Orton 1-0 with a game winning TD pass, Jay Cutler 0-1 with 4 INT's.
The 49ers pull off big upset agaist the Cardinals in Arizona! I'm not a big believer in projecting a season for a team based on the opening weeks (2007 Giants started 0-2 and won the Super Bowl) but the 49ers might be emerging as a legitimate Wild Card contender and could make a run at the NFC West this year.
The Baltimore Ravens netting 500 yards of offense! WTF? Never in my wildest dreams did I see that coming, I don't think anyone else did either. Joe Flacco is the real deal, they will push the Steelers hard for the division crown, especially if the Steelers falter while Polamalu is out.
Peyton Manning wins another game, nothing new for that guy.
Tonight's games should warm-ups for both teh Patriots and the Chargers. The Bills have no O-Line and T.O. is bound to off tonight while on the sideline watching Brady to Moss for TD's. Chargers play Oakland. Nuff said.
Thats all for now. Be back soon with more Yankees news as they inch closer to clinching the AL East and my predictions for next week's NFL action.
Cheers!
Monday, August 17, 2009
WHAT I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO FROM TONIGHT'S GIANTS GAME
It has been a long wait since the loss to the Eagles in last year's divisional round of the post-season. Much has happend with this Giants team since then, and I am excited to get my first look at the team this season.
First the players we will not see tonight are: WR Steve Smith, CB's Corey Webster & Aaron Ross, DL's Chris Canty and Fred Robbins.
Offense:
Very much looking forward to see if Andre Woodson has made any progress since last year. He put up good numbers at Kentucky but has had a hard time adjusting to the pro game. I am also hoping to see rookie Rhett Bomar, but I doubt that Coach Coughlin will be able to get 4 QB's into the game. I was super-hyped to see RB Andre Brown but an unfortunate injury will keep him out the entire season. However, there is no shortage of RB's as behind Jacobs and Bradshaw are Danny Ware and Patrick Allen. I have watched Ware in previous pre-season's and love what this guy can do. Patrick Allen is supposed to be the fastest back on the depth chart I have read.
Of course just like everyone else I am looking forward to seeing the two rookie receivers, Nicks and Barden although I must say that I am looking forward more to seeing Barden. Will also be playing close attention to the progression of Sinorice Moss, Hixon, and Manningham. Have been reading a lot about the great camp that Derek Hagan is having and am looking forward to watching him. Also want to see what rookie TE Travis Beckham can bring to the table.
Defense:
While most people are excited about the Giants D-Line, and I am too of course, I am more excited about the secondary that the Giants have built over the last few years. Although we will not see the entire starting unit tonight, I am very anxious to see Kenny Philips, Terrell Thomas and the two rookies D'Andre Wright and Stoney Woodson.
I loved the pick-up of Michael Boley and it is unfortunate that we will not see him until Week 2 of the regular season. But there is the progression of Bryan Kehl and Gerris Wilkinson to lookout for as well as rookie pass-rushing specialist Clint Sintim.
Now last but not least the D-Line. Not fully intact with Canty and Robbins both out, but still can't wait to see Osi back on the field. Also want to see some of the younger guys like Tollefson to see just how deep the Giants are at the D-Line.
Should be exciting, there are a lot of good, young players on this team and can't wait to see them in action tonight.
First the players we will not see tonight are: WR Steve Smith, CB's Corey Webster & Aaron Ross, DL's Chris Canty and Fred Robbins.
Offense:
Very much looking forward to see if Andre Woodson has made any progress since last year. He put up good numbers at Kentucky but has had a hard time adjusting to the pro game. I am also hoping to see rookie Rhett Bomar, but I doubt that Coach Coughlin will be able to get 4 QB's into the game. I was super-hyped to see RB Andre Brown but an unfortunate injury will keep him out the entire season. However, there is no shortage of RB's as behind Jacobs and Bradshaw are Danny Ware and Patrick Allen. I have watched Ware in previous pre-season's and love what this guy can do. Patrick Allen is supposed to be the fastest back on the depth chart I have read.
Of course just like everyone else I am looking forward to seeing the two rookie receivers, Nicks and Barden although I must say that I am looking forward more to seeing Barden. Will also be playing close attention to the progression of Sinorice Moss, Hixon, and Manningham. Have been reading a lot about the great camp that Derek Hagan is having and am looking forward to watching him. Also want to see what rookie TE Travis Beckham can bring to the table.
Defense:
While most people are excited about the Giants D-Line, and I am too of course, I am more excited about the secondary that the Giants have built over the last few years. Although we will not see the entire starting unit tonight, I am very anxious to see Kenny Philips, Terrell Thomas and the two rookies D'Andre Wright and Stoney Woodson.
I loved the pick-up of Michael Boley and it is unfortunate that we will not see him until Week 2 of the regular season. But there is the progression of Bryan Kehl and Gerris Wilkinson to lookout for as well as rookie pass-rushing specialist Clint Sintim.
Now last but not least the D-Line. Not fully intact with Canty and Robbins both out, but still can't wait to see Osi back on the field. Also want to see some of the younger guys like Tollefson to see just how deep the Giants are at the D-Line.
Should be exciting, there are a lot of good, young players on this team and can't wait to see them in action tonight.
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