Mad’Nuff Super Bowl Picks ( Lock it Up)

Well it is officially football season so before any snaps are taken I will  be giving you my Super Bowl picks.  As you recall last year I called it right, just check the link.  This year it was a little harder to decided.  The Patriots look like they will return to power and the Colts, and Eagles look like they will be contenders.  Not to mention the Giants who could be a quiet storm this year.  So; who you say? Who is going to the win the Super Bowl this year? 

Well Look for the Eagles to make all the way to the Super Bowl this year.  They should have won their division last year but they came up just short.  Now with a lot more fire power Mcnabb should have one of his best years ever.  So will they win it? No.  That s right the Eagles will lose in the Super Bowl too…

 

THE PITTSBURGH STEELERS:  That’s right a repeat. Why? Because only injuries can stop the Steelers from being the champs this year.  Baring any long term injuries to Big Ben the Steelers should be able to pull off the repeat easier than people think.  The schedule is a lot softer than it was last year and the depth is solid.   So those are my Super Bowl picks for this year, right it down, and “T.J. Hushmazo lock it up”

 

Also Mad’Nuff Monday night guarantees are back and better.  Stay posted.

Mad’Nuff’s BACK! With Sleeper Picks

Well it is officially the start of training camp for the NFL which means that football season Is just around the corner.   While teams like the Steelers, Patriots,  Giants, Colts, and Ravens are sure to have winning records.  I would like to give you the teams to look out for this season, Mad’Nuff’s sleeper picks.

 

Houston Texans:  The Texans have been competitive for the last two years in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL.  Playing the likes of the Colts, and the Titans twice each year and usually these two teams would be too much for the Texans to handle but this year is different.  The Texans are going to finally have some continuity this year, and a decent amount of experience on both sides of the ball.  While the Titans have no shot at performing the way they did last year and the Colts abilities have yet to be seen with the changing of coaches.  Look for the Texans to make the playoffs this year and possibly even win their division.

 

Minnesota Vikings:  There had been a lot of talk about Favre coming to this team but the truth of the matter is he won’t and he is not needed.  If Childress does the right thing and Starts Tavaris  Jackson look for the Vikings to win their division and steamroll into the playoffs.  This is a 9 win team without a quarterback, and if any QB plays well for them this year they are a lock for 11 wins.

 

 

San Francisco 49ers:  Yeah Ok maybe they aren’t a lock for the super bowl, but this is a team on the rise in the worst division in the league,  the Cardinals made it to the super bowl last year but that easily could have been any one of the teams in that division.  With Mike Singletary at the helm the team made leaps and bounds last year.  A team with this much potential only needs to harness it and they could easily win their division.  Look for the 49ers to have their first winning season in a long time and be in playoff contention.

Watch the New Features and Gameplay videos of Madden 2010 from EA Sports!

EA Sports has done it again, producing a new high quality Madden game experience. Everyone wants to know who is the 99’s and what is my team ranked. We have the answer for you guys out there.

As far as the teams go the overall rankings are as follows.

Bears: 79

Bengals: 67

Bills: 76

Broncos: 70

Browns: 68

Buccaneers: 74

Cardinals: 86

Chargers: 88

Chiefs: 69

Colts: 87

Cowboys: 85

Dolphins: 77

Eagles: 88

Falcons: 81

49ers: 73

Giants: 89

Jags: 71

Jets: 78

Lions: 65

Packers: 78

Panthers: 83

Patriots: 93

Raiders: 71

Rams: 66

Ravens: 82

Redskins: 79

Saints: 74

Seahawks: 77

Steelers: 92

Texans: 75

Titans: 87

Vikings: 80

Check out some of the top QB’s here

Check out the rankings of the new rookies from this years 1st round

Check out the Top Defensive players for the 2010 Madden

This is the Sports game that ever other game online wishes to emulate. Madden 2010 has so many new features we have decided to list some of them for you to check out.

1. The first new feature that I think is just awesome is the Madden 10 Online Franchise feature.

Check out the video and let us know what you think

The second cool new feature is the Online Co-op Mode, which will let you team up with your friends online, while you are in different places. Now you can argue over assigments instead of straight trash talking. This makes Madden the ultimate team game in my eyes. Check out the video!

The one of the newest features of Madden is what EA is calling “ProTek” animation developement. I have yet to experience this feature in person, and I feel that it could be a great feature or it could just be a gimicky animation that really has no effect on the gaming experience of Madden 2010. I do love though that they have spent more time on making QB’s realease the ball exactly how they do in real life, according to Release height and release speed.
Check out the Video EA has made to introduce you to Protek below

Rex Ryan Could end up Being a Douche Bag

This Rex Ryan is certainly making a name for himself with a confident and brash mouth. Thus far, the big man is being noted for two occurrences of verbal notoriety and virtual nothing else past his reputation as Baltimore Ravens’ defensive coordinator.

The first came when he was being interviewed on a radio show and was asked about facing New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick two times a year. He stated “I did not come here to kiss Bill Belichick’s rings” more or less. Let me analyze. Most people would give Belichick his proper dues and state that they definitely aim to compete/challenge their rival. However, he comes out and makes a statement similar to what a 1930’s era bootlegger might say.

The second issue was his comments about Miami Dolphins starting middle linebacker Channing Crowder here when he claimed to have never heard of him. Crowder certainly responded with truth. He said that Ryan is an “OTA Super Bowl winner” as in he has won the offseason and that if he was truly doing his homework, that he’d know who the Miami Dolphins starting middle linebacker was.

Now, I’m pretty sure Ryan did know him. I’m not saying that a guy talking like this out in the open isn’t interesting. But I am saying that if his team does not end up looking respectable, even this year, he might just look like a real douche bag. If he ends up having a short life in New York, then he will really look like an idiot. He could be the next Mike Tice; big, burly, fat cheeks, thinks he’s a thug, has the respect of his team, but can’t win a damn thing.

Tom Brady is Back! Are the 2007 Patriots?

The fact that Tom Brady’s leg injury from last year no doubt opened the door for many teams in the AFC to be considered at a competitive balance should be no secret to anyone. Now that Brady is back, he has lost mobility, but that doesn’t mean that this year’s Patriots can’t be very close to explosive as they were in their undefeated regular season from two years past.

Even if the Patriots’ offense isn’t going to be as explosive as it was when it was the most explosive offense in NFL history, well then how bad can the drop off really be? Still one of the top offenses ever? Close to one of the top offenses ever? Or at least one of the top two offenses this season. Either way, those odds are good for the Pats.

Don’t be surprised if the Patriots run away with the AFC East where the Jets are still growing and have no proven quarterback, the Dolphins rely on trickery and near-perfect play from Chad Pennington at quarterback, and Buffalo where, Trent Edwards proved last year that he still has something to well… prove!

The Lions New Logo isn’t going to excite fans of a 0-16 team!

I hate how the NFL and the Lions are trying to be super secret about the new logo change. Trust me NFL this isn’t going to excite anyone. This team went 0-16 last season and instead of a new logo these fans deserve a new team with real players and coaches. It’s kind of dumb either way, this team is going to stink this year, new logo or not, it doesn’t matter, they are a second rate NFL organization and that’s not changing any time soon. The Lions are not the Bucs or Patriots of the past. They are not going to change their logo and then start being competitive, trust me. Both those teams had good O and D lines while the lions do not!  Well since the NFL is not going to unveil this new logo until closer to the season, I just want to ruin their fun and post the new logo concepts anyways. Suck on this Detroit and enjoy your new pussy cat logos!

Bloggin Bills: Is TO shaking things up already? What are the Bills Chances at Success?

I wonder if TO looks to everyone like he is already troubling the waters in Buffalo by opting out of the team’s voluntary workouts, as he recently has reported. I mean, it’s the first real official function that has been held by his new team and he could already raise hairs as well as questions with this move. However, to me, just let the guy live.

 

First of all he’s already 35 years old. And seriously, how big a deal is this stupid mini three or four day work out? It must literally be a few weight lifting sessions, some standard conditioning, and three fine meals a day. I think if a 35 year old man who is in the 14th year of his career says he doesn’t want to go to the voluntary work out, who cares. TO has been in the league so long now, he knows how his body reacts to stress, or when too little is too little, and he’s led the league in TD catches over the last three years.

 

I wouldn’t jump on TO just yet. Let’s wait and see if he has a sideline tirade, or speaks his mind a little too much to the media before we start chastising him.

 

And seriously folks… the Bills suck. They don’t have a chance. They started the season 4-0 and stutter-stepped it the rest of the way to a 3-9 finish. That’s not the stuff of champions, and neither is Trent Edwards or the bum-butt Buffalo Bills. They will easily be swept by Tom Brady’s Patriots, and would get destroyed by many of last year’s playoff teams.

 

And if you ask me, I would liken watching the Bills hopeful run-oriented approach to a lower level online madden gamer attempting to beat someone in the 20s.

Where Will Jay Cutler Go from Here?

Yesterday it was reported that the Pro Bowl Quarterback of the Denver Broncos, Jay Cutler, had officially requested a trade. Today, we the people, began contemplating where he might end up if his request is honored. I’m sure there are many fans out there whose team could use a guy in Jay Cutler who played like the potential franchise-type quarterback that many analysts foresaw. The scoop is that new head coach Josh McDaniels, who was offensive coordinator for the Patriots, wanted to trade Cutler for Matt Cassel since he was familiar with his system already. This has since angered the young Cutler and he now wants to go… but where?!

To start off an easy process of elimination, every team in the AFC is out since teams don’t usually like to send star players away to in-conference franchises. And although Cassel was finally traded to another AFC team, like his former Patriots, in the Chiefs, that was more of an “I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine” deal.

This was the widespread thought when that deal went down, because Scott Pioli, the former general manager of the Patriots moved onto Kansas City to try and resurrect that ball club.

So the AFC is out!

In the NFC East, Dallas has Tony Romo, NY has Eli Manning, and Philadelphia has Donovan McNabb. So far, Jason Campbell of the Washington Redskins still has a lot to prove, while Cutler seems way more promising than him thus far when both their careers are compared.

In the NFC North, the Packers have Aaron Rodgers, and the Vikings made moves to throw their young QB Tarvaris Jackson into a competition with newly acquired Sage Rosenfels from Houston. I don’t think that the Lions could attract an odor, so the Bears are definitely a hot spot. They’ve had no success with Rex Grossman, and minimal with Kyle Orton.

In the NFC South, the Saints boast Drew Brees, and the Falcons have a young star in rookie of the year Matt Ryan. The Panthers would have looked to have some great trade bait with the disgruntled Julius Peppers, but now it looks like he may be a Patriot soon. However, with Jake Delhomme being their current signal caller you still can’t count them out. Then there’s the Buccaneers who got rid of veteran Jeff Garcia.

After that, in the NFC West, the Seahawks have Matt Hasselbeck who is not past his better days yet, and Kurt Warner is obviously safe as the Cardinals QB. Cross those two teams out and you have the 49ers with the disappointing results of Alex Smith’s progress, and the St. Louis Rams, who should have started thinking about dropping Marc Bulger quite some time ago.

So there you have it. The top candidates to have Jay Cutler for President!

Julius Peppers traded to Patriots!

The Patriots are making more than a splash this year in the off season. Our Sportsroids sources have confirmed that this deal is very close to being completed. Peppers will probably play OLB in the Patriots system, so it will be a interesting change for Peppers. If the Patriots pull off this move they will be a very different team in 2010. They will receive an off season grade of A+ from me, since they signed Leigh Bodden, Julius Peppers,Joey Galloway, Shawn Springs and Fred Taylor. I expect them to win the division.

The 2010 New England Patriots have the best WR’s in the history of Football due to the big name signing of Joey Galloway

Over the last two seasons we have seen the dynamic duo of Randy Moss and Wes Welker set records for the Patriots. It seemed it couldn’t get any sweeter for The Patriots. But now, they have picked up a long time NFL great wide out Joey Galloway, Galloway is known for his incredible speed and big catch ability, and seems to be a great match for this squad. You would have to be a moron to argue the fact that this team is now stacked with a bonafide WR triple threat for the ages. They have Pro-bowl caliber WR’s from 1 through 3 and I really can’t recall when any other team was this stacked as they are at WR. Say what you will about Galloway’s old age and recent surgery at the end of last season, he still was the most explosive and fastest WR on the Bucs at year’s end. This season everyone should fully expect Brady to have a monster season as long as his knee can hold up. I am interested to see how that chump holds up!

and PS

I hate the Patriots!

Tom Brady and Randy Moss New England Patriots Framed Tri Photo Collage

NFL Playoff Outlook

With just two weeks of play left in the regular season of the 2008-2009 year, a few teams have locked up a spot in the playoffs while others are still fighting to make it. What is about to unfold in this article is, what are in my mind, the teams that will make it.

We already know the Steelers and Titans have locked up spots and first round byes in the AFC. In the NFC the Giants have clinched their division while the Cardinals have as well. First I will go over the locks to get in.

In the AFC the only sure-fire lock I have is the Indianapolis Colts. If they beat Jacksonville this Thursday in Florida, they’re in. With the way the Jags have disappointed, I do not even see them using the rivalry bug as added motivation to beat Indianapolis.

In the NFC, surprisingly, the Carolina Panthers have not clinched even with an 11-3 record, which is a testament to the competitiveness of the NFC. However, one more win or one more loss from another team or two would put them in. The Cowboys have been hot lately. I don’t care about Romo’s performance in Pittsburgh. The game was still close, and it has been their only slip up since his return from injury. They face the Ravens at home, and Eagles in Philadelphia. The Eagle game should be tough and they easily can lose, but to me, I think all of the air got sucked out of the Raven team with their last minute loss to Pittsburgh last weekend.

The Vikings should clinch their division as the Bears face the Packers on Monday Night at home, but then travel to Houston the last week. Houston is on pace to finish up 9-7 and Andre Johnson should be able to shred their weak pass defense.

After that I don’t think Tampa will get in as they have slipped up and their weaknesses are beginning to be exposed. The Falcons and Eagles to me will be the ones to fighting for the 6th seed in the NFL as they have both been consistent as of late.

Back in the AFC, I’ll take the Patriots to win their division. They are at home against the Cardinals who have clinched, and then at a bum Buffalo team. That would put them at 11-5. The reason I see this happening is because the as-of-late inconsistent Jets should lose in Seattle this weekend, and the Dolphins will beat the Kansas City Chiefs. But when they play each other in New York, I’ll take a last-ditch effort by Favre to even their records at 10-6, giving one of them the 6th seed.

The only seed I am unsure of is the 4th seed in the AFC as the Broncos are 8-6 and Chargers 6-8. If the Chargers beat Tampa Bay in Tampa this weekend, which is not an oversight, and the Broncos lose at home to the Bills, which is still a bit of a stretch even if the Broncos aren’t so consistent, then they will be playing in San Diego for the division in week 17. If that happens, I’ll take the Chargers.

So that’s how I believe the “tournament” brackets will be set up come January.

CHIPZ SAYZ… MATT CASSEL HAS GONE AWOL!!

CHIPZ SAYZ… MATT CASSEL HAS GONE AWOL! On December 8th, 2008, Patriot’s Quarterback Matt Cassel’s father was found dead in San Bernardino, California. Cassel left the Patriots soon afterwards to return home with family. It is unclear whether or not he will come back to play during this Sunday’s game at Oakland.

The New England Patriots are in a three way tie in the AFC East. This coming Sunday’s game at Oakland will be a decisive game in determining who will take the lead in the AFC East and with a possibility that Matt Cassel will not return by this Sunday’s game will hurt this franchise in any hope of winning the Superbowl or even getting into the playoffs. We must also include key defensive player Tedy Bruschi who is likely to be out for the remainder of the season as a result of a knee injury will hinder the Patriots in being a successful team.

I, CHIPZ, have my own conclusions and conspiracies. Is Coach Belichick hiding something from us? Yes, I understand that Matt Cassel has a duty to go home to be with family and sort out any personal issues, but lets look at the big picture; as a player, when you sign those contacts, you also sign away that luxury. Look at past NFL history. Quarterback Brett Favre’s father died the day of his game and yet he was still on that field even with fans believing he wouldn’t show up. I believe that Matt Cassel simply packed his bags and walked out knowing that he might not return. It explains why Coach Belichick has no definite answer to whether Cassel will be back by this Sunday’s game or not. I personally don’t think we will see Matt Cassel return for the remainder of the 2008 season. Which leaves us with backup quarterback Kevin O’Connell who has only completed three passes during this entire season. However, I do believe that Kevin O’Connell was a great quarterback at San Diego State with a career 7,689 passing yards, 46 touchdowns, and a completion rating of 57.7%. The statistics aren’t up to par as some of his co NFL quarterback draftees, but the San Diego State Aztecs had a horrible offensive line and mediocre wide receivers. A collapsing offensive line isn’t something that is new to quarterback Kevin O’Connell and I will call it now, if he has the chance to start for the Patriots this weekend against the Oakland Raiders, the Patriots will win. Matt Cassel’s stock has just bottomed out!

Third Quarter NFL Contenders

The NFL has hit its third quarter mark, and after twelve of the most up-and-down weeks of football in recent history, it is still a bit of a stretch to call anybody a true lock for the Super Bowl save for the New York Giants. However, there are still a few teams that are definitely pulling away from most others as viable Super Bowl contenders.

 

The first team, resoundingly, is the Giants. This is the best team in the league as far as everyone being on the same page. They have shown great depth to overcome almost all injuries, and even self-imposed gunshot wounds. Their one loss to the Browns in Cleveland where they went down by a score of 14 to 35 was a true head-scratcher. However, that game can definitely hold an asterisk for being an aberration since the Brownies have been terrible for the most part. The Giants have gone from a team with potential who plays on emotion, to a team that just flat out knows how to win. They are a well-oiled machine and are unphased by whatever distractions, whatever home field advantages their opponents have, and whichever fallen soldier opponents might be playing for.

 

The second team that comes to mind in my view is the Pittsburgh Steelers. Their loss to the Eagles was just one of those days where nothing goes good offensively. They had a slump against the two Manning led teams but seem to have their act together as they have won convincingly for the most part ever since.

 

A team like the Jets had their slumps early on against teams like Oakland where they lost 16-13, and only scored ten points at home against the Patriots, then rip off a five game winning streak, blow out the previously undefeated Titans in Tennessee, and suffer another inexcusable slump to the no-defense Broncos at home losing 34-17. That is not the stuff of a contender, but rather a team with potential but a little too inconsistent to have faith in.

 

My next team is the Baltimore Ravens. Say what you want about their rookie quarterback. They are playing lights out and beating opponents they are supposed to beat the way the good teams are supposed to… big. They have had their share of slumps, namely a 30-10 loss to the Giants, and a 31-3 loss to the Colts. However, they already took Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania to OT and lost 20-23, but that was in just the fourth week of young Joe Flacco’s already budding career. If the Ravens get into the playoffs and meet up with the Colts or Giants again, it should be a lot closer as typically, second meetings between two teams in the same season are rarely ever a duplicate of the first meeting. Oh, and don’t count them out to win the AFC North as they still get Pittsburgh one last time for sure at home in two weeks and trail the Steelers by just one game.

 

After the Ravens, the Colts should not be overlooked. They keep finding ways to win, and a handful of those wins were handed to them. However, that kind of luck coupled with their post season experience can be a bad omen for their opponents come playoff time if they get in. And yes, I am counting luck as a factor. They have shown the kind of luck that is too good to be true, i.e. Titans, Steelers, and Browns games.

 

After that, I would say the Cowboys are the sleeper. They slumped big time early on. They did not have their act together as they seemed to display the heir of a team who already saw themselves in the Super Bowl. Now with their backs against the wall, they are looking like that kind of team again.

 

As for other squads like the Panthers and Bucs, their efforts are certainly admirable, but their quarterbacks, Jake Delhomme and Jeff Garcia respectively, are just too inconsistent. The Arizona Cardinals are like the Saints… great passing attack and not much more. The only difference is their division stinks. The one team that could be close to a contender is the Atlanta Falcons. They are moving milestones ahead in their rebuilding process at 8-4, and are perhaps one or two more productive seasons, and a good losing post season experience away from becoming a perennial contender.

 

Other than that, all of the other teams are just a little too consistent for my blood.

Mad’Nuff Mad Skills Player of the Week (week12)

Mad’Nuff Mad Skills Player of the week

This week’s award goes to Randy Moss I know their were a lot of impressive performances this week but 3 receiving TDs that’s the truth straight up Homie, Matt Cassell has to put in more work to get this prestigious award plus without Randy Moss none of his stats would be possible. After being “disrespected” as Randy put it when they played him single coverage he torched the Dolphins. Randy managed to get 8 receptions for 125 yards and 3TDS , and now the Dolphins know when you disrespect Randy Moss you disrespect yourself and that my friends is why Randy Moss has Mad Skills.

Randy Moss Autographed Duke Football

This Duke Pro football has been personally hand signed by the New England Patriots wide receiver Randy Moss. This product is officially licensed by the National Football League and comes with an individually numbered; tamper evident hologram from Mounted Memories. To ensure authenticity- the hologram can be reviewed online. This process helps to ensure that the product purchased is authentic and eliminates any possibility of duplication or fraud.

CHIPZ SAYS, “Buckle up boys, we’re going into the PLAYOFFS!”

     After being away for the past 2 weeks doing extensive research all paid for by Sportsroids.com to better your fantasy football knowledge, I’ve only came up with one solution – INCONSISTENCIES!!! Okay, I lied about getting paid to do extensive research. However, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that we’re seeing a lot of inconsistencies with our players and we don’t know who to start anymore. So here’s the problem that I will answer in this article; who should we start?

     Play the game smart. Now is not the time to look for sleeper picks unless your starter is hurt. Wide Receiver Hines Ward of the Pittsburgh Steelers is an example of a very inconsistent starter. If you have him, you cannot risk not starting him in week 13 even though he did terrible in week 12. Quarterback Brady Quinn of the Cleveland Browns is another inconsistent starter. He did great in week 11, but had to leave after the first half in week 12 to let Quarterback Derek Anderson in to possibly spark any hope in coming back. The only difference between Brady Quinn and Hines Ward is, don’t not start Brady Quinn. Look for another quarterback asap. Quarterback Matt Cassel of the New England Patriots is an awesome quarterback and I’ve always believed he’d produce and he is. If he hasn’t been picked, pick him up NOW and start him if you are having quarterback problems.

 

     Running Back Reggie Bush of the New Orleans Saints is a keeper but I wouldn’t start him in week 13. Right now, Running Back Pierre Thomas of the New Orleans Saints is looking pretty good especially with week 12’s game ending with 87 rushing yards and 2 rushing touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers. The Saints might let him get a few more carries over Reggie Bush if they let him play in week 14 to allow Bush to get the rest he needs. Wait for week 14 or 15 before you start Bush again. If you’re having problems with your running back position and you need to make the playoffs, you might want to consider dropping Reggie Bush. Look for Kevin Faulk of the New England Patriots, Mewelde Moore of the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Peyton Hillis of the Denver Broncos if they haven’t been picked up.

 

 

 

 

     Running Back Tatum Bell of the Denver Broncos was expected by a lot of fantasy football owners as a potential sleeper pick but ended up as a fluke. I wouldn’t count on him for the rest of the season. Running Back Peyton Hillis will carry most of the rushes for Denver as long as he keeps doing what he has been doing for the past 2 weeks. In week 12, he carried 12 times for 74 yards with an average of 6 yards per carry.

     The Cleveland Browns, Philadelphia Eagles, and the Seattle Seahawks are a team you should stay away from. I wouldn’t start any of their players except for Tight End Kellen Winslow of the Cleveland Browns because they are struggling teams that aren’t going to produce for you. Quarterback Donovan Mcnabb of the Philadelphia Eagles is struggling right now and isn’t getting any support from his team, his coach, or his fans. Mentally, he will be down and until he can prove that he can come out of his slump, do not start him. A once first round draft pick, Running Back Brian Westbrook of the Philadelphia Eagles is also a player who you probably don’t want to start. He is still hurt and even though he’s playing through the pain, he obviously isn’t producing the stats he needs to for you to win. Look to sit him out for week 13.

     Look at your starters and keep them in unless you have the starters I’ve named in this article to bench. Remember, play the game smart and don’t risk anything yet. Your team is on the line and you NEED to make the playoffs! Leave comments and I’ll respond to them with any tips I can offer.

NFL Game Picks for Week 12 (no point spread)

Thursday, Nov. 20

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers, 8:15 p.m.

My Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers

This should be a lock for the Pittsburgh Steelers. This team has been playing way below average the entire season. The Steelers recent success has been due to its dominate defense. Pittsburgh is awful offensively, and are struggling to run the ball. I would not be surprised at all, if the Bengals pull out a win on this struggling Steelers team, because the Bengals are explosive and if they can put points up they may be able to take the struggling Steelers Offense out. Also the Bengals have a reemerging RB in Cedric Benson. I can’t pick against the Steelers in Hines Field however against this rival team. STEELERS WIN!

Sunday, Nov. 23

Houston Texans at Cleveland Browns, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Texans

Cleveland with have their hands full this week from a defensive standpoint. They will have to deal with the Rookie sensation Steve Slaton, whom is one of the fastest RB in the league. I feel to combat Slaton’s raw speed they may gameplan to leave more defenders in the box or even have a player shadow him, which will in turn leave Owen Daneils as well as Andre Johnson with more room to make the big play. Sorry Brady Quinn I don’t think Sunday is your day. Rogers should be ineffective on Slaton, because The Texans should and will test the edges of this Cleveland Defense. The Texans have lost a lot of close ones this season and their record is really not representative of their talent. I give this game to Houston without any doubts.

Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Atlanta Falcons

After last weeks performance how could you pick against these guys. They are at home, they are rolling over teams with “After Burner” Turner leading the way. Carolina had a great week last week, and have 2 top teir atheletes at RB, but I believe the better line in this one will be the Atlanta falcons. They should win the war on both sides of the field. I realize that the Panthers have a great D-line, but this week in ATL it sure won’t look like it. I am doing the dirty bird all night long as the Falcons win.

San Francisco 49ers at Dallas Cowboys, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys have a lot to prove after they have looks like a bunch of children among men. Tony Romo is back in the saddle of the cowboys offense, and Jerry Jones must be happy he has the greatest team in the history of the league on paper. Dallas should roll over the 49ers, but if Mike Singletary message is starting to take, we could be in for a great game. The 49ers best chance at success is being more physical then the soft cowboys team. If he lets Frank Gore punch the cowboys Defense in the mouth for at least 28 carries they will have their best chance to win. If you play tougher than the cowboys they usually fold. I will be rooting for Mike Singletary’s 49ers but this game should be all Dallas all day !
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers have already won this game. Thier will be no need to even predict it’s outcome because it has already happened. The Headline read, “Bucs win big and Jump-start the Caddy”

Buffalo Bills at Kansas City Chiefs, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Kansas City Chiefs

With the improving play of Thigpen, and Bradley the chiefs offense have more ability to score. Buffalo laid a egg on Monday night, and have a shorter week to prepare for this road game. I believe that KC will have their work cut out for them, because they may get dominated by the Bill’s defensive line. I however am going to go with the hotter team at the moment, who just so happens to be the home team. Trust me this might be the new KC masterpiece.
New York Jets at Tennessee Titans, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Tennessee Titans

This will be the best game of the week without a doubt. Anytime a team makes it to week 12 during the NFL season, while remaining undefeated, everyone has an interest in them. The Titans have been so successful because of their attitude. The Titans are a tough team that will wear you down as the game goes on with their tenacious defense and their violent rushing attack.  If the Jets can contain their rushing attack due to the acquisition of superstar tackle Chris Jenkins, they may have a shot. They Jets however cannot turn the ball over if they really want to have a chance so Brett Farve is going to need to be extra careful. I don’t believe the Jets will be able to run on this D-line so expect Brett to have to make some plays. This is why I don’t see the Jets pulling out the win.Defensively the Jets should be able to stop the Titans Offense yet I think the Jets offense is going to get mauled. Expect a multi interception game for Farve. Regardless the ending still is the same Titans win.

Chicago Bears at St. Louis Rams, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Chicago Bears

Da Bears Da Bears Da Bears Da Bears. Mike Ditka knows that Forte goes nutz this week and the Rams waive the white flag by the 3rd quarter.

Minnesota Vikings at Jacksonville Jaguars, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Minnesota Vikings

The only reason that Minnesota wins this game is because they will man handle the Jags on the defensive side of the ball by winning the battle in the trenches. The Jags are a very bad team, when their Rushing attack is shut down and they are forced to pass. Expect to see this in Week 12. The Jags are living proof how different a team can be when you are missing key lineman. They were a top team in the NFL last year and now look at them. Minnesota wins in Florida. oh yeah, wouldn’t it be great to see Tavares Jackson again?

New England Patriots at Miami Dolphins, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Miami Dolphins

Honestly this is Bill’s game to win or lose. He controls the outcome. The Dolphins are not as good of a team unit as the Patriots and I might be picking with my heart on this one and not my brain. The Dolphins I feel are ready to jump the hurdle of the Patriots this year and this is the week. I don’t have any idea on how this could pan out, but expect Joey Porter to be involved on defense at making some huge momentum impacting hits and some turnovers. Rickey and Ronnie will have a tough time running but maybe they together will be able to wear down that good D-line that the Patriots have. I wonder how many times the Patriots are going to film, “The Wildcat Formation” during Dolphins team practice? Haha, screw cheaters I’ll take the FInS!!

(Isn’t it ironic that before “spy-gate” was leaked Bill was winning a lot more games than his is now?)

Philadelphia Eagles at Baltimore Ravens, 1 p.m.

My Pick: Eagles

This game is going to be ugly, with both Offenses struggling. Expect a good amount of pressure to be placed on Joe Flacco and for that reason we may see more rushes called that normal. Ray Rice could become a big factor in this game. Regardless the eagles are in a must win situation, and now that Mcnabb knows that you can tie, maybe they will finish this one up before the final whistle. Don’t expect many rushing yards for Westbrook because the Ravens are not going to let another 100 yard rusher for a while, you just know Ray Lewis is still pissed about last weeks GMEN game.

Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos, 4:05 p.m.

My Pick: Denver Broncos

Yeah if they loose, I think Shanahan should retire!

Washington Redskins at Seattle Seahawks, 4:15 p.m.

My Pick: Washington Redskins

After blowing a game against the cowboys last week, they can not  afford to screw this game up. Expect Zorn to be on the top of his game. They will not allow themselves to lose this game, and will stop at nothing to win. The Redskins defense will produce at least 2 turnovers in this game, that’s a guarantee. We all know that Seattle is one of the hardest places to play in for opposing teams, so expect silent counts and less shotgun formations and no empty sets for the Redskins. Clinton Portis literally will be the game breaker for the skins this week. Skins win in a close game in Seattle.

New York Giants at Arizona Cardinals, 4:15 p.m.

My Pick:New York Giants

The New York Giants have a history of ending QB’s careers, and I would not be surprised to see Kurt hold on the ball 1 second to long in this game. Kurt has not gone against a team that can rush the passer as well as the Giants can, and it has showed in his statistics. Expect the Superbowl Champs to dominate the Cardinals from the first whistle physically. They will pound the Cardinals back into their nests, sending them migrating home for the rest of the winter. Giants Win, and Kurt gets hit. Hit a lot.

Indianapolis Colts at San Diego Chargers, 8:15 p.m.

My Pick: Indianapolis Colts

The Colts are finally healthy and are playing up to their potential.  This San Diego team is over rated in my book and I refuse to take them as a real contender. They have top tier players whom look great on paper still have yet to prove that they win big games as a team. I just don’t think will be able to pull out the W this week. The Colts are just the better team, and come Sunday night everyone will see it. Peyton cuts up the charges and scores 2+ TD’s. Colts win.

Monday, Nov. 24

Green Bay Packers at New Orleans Saints, 8:30 p.m.

My Pick: Green Bay Packers

This should be a really excited game, involving Drew Brees dropping back for over 50 to 60 attempts. I have a pretty good feeling that the Packer’s Rushing attack will be the thing that wins this game. Ryan Grant will have a big day pounding and punishing Saints defenders. Expect a great & Exciting game, but still this game should end with the Pack on top.

Rising Star?

The Jets may have found themselves the quarterback for right now, but they may have also found themselves the key to their future. Matt Cassel looked more like Joe Montana in that number 16 jersey last night. Throwing for 400 yards, 3 TD’s plus a 2pt conversion as well as rushing for 62 more yards. Granted he’s got Randy Moss and Wes Welker to target and they were playing from behind for most of the game. However you just do not put up those kind of numbers by mistake. The former USC bench warmer showed the football world last night that he has got the moxy and the confidence to lead his team as well as the support of those around him.

Cassel will be a free agent next year and has surely put himself at the front of the class for teams needing a new signal caller. The Jets would be silly not to go out and make a huge offer if Cassel continues to play this well and prove his doubters wrong. I will not go as far as to say he is the next Babe Ruth but considering the rivalry and the history of the ever raging battle between Boston and New York this could prove to be a major play by the New York Jets and perhaps could put them on track to defining their franchise.

Other teams will surely be courting Cassel. The Rams, Lions, 49ers and Vikings will surely be in the mix just to name a few. This is a can’t miss opportunity for the Jets. Having missed the boat on previous drafts and coming up short in the quarterback rich 2008 draft the Jets could make all the difference in the world by signing Cassel away from their division rival Patriots. The Patriots will not miss a beat when Brady returns next season. And with the Dolphins and Bills both having found solid qb play as well as young armed back-ups the Jets can ill afford hanging the future on what will be a 40 year old arm when they open their new stadium in 2009. Even if they get one more playoff run from Brett Favre in 2009 the future is bleak for the New York Jets A.B.

Bradyless Patriots lose to Jets

Well it seems that Brett Favre will achieve the goals that the organization has set for him and that is to take the team to the Playoffs.  The Jets jumped on the Pats early in the game though the Pats were able to come back, it wasn’t enough.   You can’t help to think that if Brady was playing they would have won that game.   However he is not and will not. The Pats with this loss, have solidified themselves at second place in the AFC East.  Why?  Because of the two teams, the Pats have to play tougher teams, and the Jets look really good, while the Pats are getting by on coaching alone.   Look for the Jets to win the Division and the Pats to struggle to grab a birth in the playoffs.

Alex V’s NFL Week 9 Picks

NYJ 4-3 at BUF 5-2

If Brett Favre can cut down on his mistakes for at least one week he can put his team in great position to perhaps win the AFC East. But the Buffalo Bills have shown more consistency and are better all around than the Jets. For this, the Bills should win at home.

DET 0-7 at CHI 4-3

The last time these two teams met was in week five when Kyle Orton torched the Lions for 334 yards and two TDs with no turnovers. Expect to see more of the same. Bears move to 5-3.

JAC 3-4 at CIN 0-8

The Bengals are a team in absolute despair. They may very well be worse than the 0-7 Lions as they are 32^nd in scoring with 13 points per game (while the Lions are 28^th with 16.3 per game). However, Carson Palmer returns and I’m feeling that the inconsistent Jaguars, who have shown over the years a propensity to play down to the level of their opponent, will be the prime candidate for this team to get its first win against. Bengals win.

BAL 4-3 at CLE 3-5

This is a tough one. Joe Flacco is improving and the Baltimore defense is playing as good as ever minus their 31-3 loss to the Colts. Meanwhile, the Browns have picked up their defense and Derek Anderson has been getting closer to what he looked like last year. I will take the Browns at home in a close game.

T.B. 5-3 at K.C. 1-6

Tampa Bay has a great opportunity to get back in the win column versus the lowly Chiefs. As long as Jeff Garcia can protect the ball, the Bucs should win this one. I’ll take Tampa Bay.

HOU 3-4 at MIN 3-4

Even though Minnesota is coming off a bye and playing at home, I am taking the Texans in this matchup. The Vikings can’t keep a streak going, while the Texans seem to be getting things back together as they are the second hottest team after the 7-0 Titans.

ARI 4-3 at STL 2-5

The Cardinals have been unable to solve their road woes where they have only won when they played the lowly 49ers in San Francisco back in week one. However, they weren’t far off last week losing 23-27 and owning the lead for the better part of the game against Carolina. The Rams have been more competitive with Jim Haslett at the helm, but I’m picking the Cards to snag the “W.”

G.B. 4-3 at TEN 7-0

The 31-21 win the Titans earned against Indy last Monday night was huge. They are looking like one of the strongest teams in the league. But Green Bay did a number on the Colts as well in week 7 winning 34-14 and forcing two pics by Manning just like the Titans on Monday. Although the Titans have better defense (1^st in pts per game), the Packers make up for the yardage they give up ranking 16^th in points with sacks and INTs. I’ll take the play of Aaron Rodgers over Kerry Collins to win this game for Green Bay.

MIA 3-5 at DEN 4-3

Get ready for the problems in Denver to unfold even further when they blow it against the strong ground game and 100.5 QB rating and 69.3% completion percentage that Chad Pennington is sporting thus far. Dolphins win big in Denver.

DAL 5-3 at NYG 6-1

The moment in the NFC East that we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived. Too bad it won’t truly show who the better team is if Brad Johnson is playing as Tony Romo looks to be a potential game-time decision… but just potentially. What’s worse is that Dallas’ three top corners are out as well, and no name rookie Orlando Scandrick will be called upon to pick up the slack which is great news for Eli Manning. Even if Romo comes in, he’ll still be favoring his right pinkie. Giants win.

ATL 4-3 at OAK 2-5

Atlanta looked sloppy in their loss to the Eagles last week, but they looked “rookie quarterback” sloppy. All Matt Ryan has to do to get his team a win against the sometimes feisty Raiders is keep his mistakes to a minimum. But even that might not be enough as I feel the Raiders will pull it out.

PHI 4-3 at SEA 2-5

Don’t look now, but Seattle with a 2-5 record is second in its division behind 4-3 Arizona. The Eagles have been somewhat inconsistent this season and a win against a young Atlanta team last week cannot really be taken as proof that they have solved their issues. Expect a tough battle out of both teams with the Eagles pulling out a close one.

N.E. 5-2 at IND 3-4

Who would have thought that with Brady gone that the Patriots would have a better record than the Colts this far into the season? Make that a records that is two more wins and two less losses better! This is a tough game to call. Matt Cassel may have led his team to victory last weekend and first place in the AFC East, but he still tossed two pics. But on the other end, the Colts’ offense seems out of sync as Manning tossed two pics as well. Both team’s starting running backs are out, Laurence Maroney for New England, and Joseph Addai for Indy, and both defenses have been questionable. Bottom line, until Cassel shows some more consistency I have to go with Peyton Manning and his team in this one.

PIT 5-2 at WAS 6-2

This is the game where the Redskins get to prove they’re no fluke. They may have beaten Dallas and Philly, but as the season has progressed, those two wins don’t look like such a surprise anymore. The Steelers are reeling after a mistake-filled, give-the-game-away performance to the Giants last weekend. But… I expect the mistakes to mount for the Steelers which derive mainly from an O-line that can’t block and gets called for penalties, while the Redskins will do what they’ve been doing thus far this season… rise to the occasion against another team that is perceived to be a contender.

Alex V’s NFL Week 8 Picks

OAK 2-4 at BAL 3-3

Oakland has been one feisty team as of late. I expect them to remain feisty, but it won’t be enough to overcome the Baltimore defense and improving play of QB Joe Flacco.

ARI 4-2 at CAR 5-2

Carolina slaughtered the inconsistent Saints last week winning 30-7. The Cardinals come off a huge win against Dallas and a bye week. I look to see Carolina showing some consistency. I’ll go with Carolina.

T.B. 5-2 at Dallas 4-3

Tampa is slowly coming into view from being under the radar. Either way, I don’t think Dallas is a smart enough team, collectively, to see this. I think they’ll lose at home!

WAS 5-2 at DET 0-6

Washington won already.

BUF 5-1 at MIA 2-4

Miami’s head-turning victories against the Pats and Chargers are becoming more and more distant with losses to the Texans and Ravens. The surging Bills continue to surge!

STL 2-4 at N.E. 4-2

Expect to see a partially competitive game. St. Louis has improved under Jim Haslett, but the Patriots look like they will be playing smart football for most of the remainder of this season. New England wins it.

S.D. 3-4 at New Orleans 3-4… in London

It’s funny. Both teams are highly inconsistent but have massive potential and both share equal records. This game won’t prove who’s ready to turn things around since they’re both so unpredictable. Both have great offense, but I’ll take the Chargers who have better defense. 

K.C. 1-5 at NYJ 3-3

The Jets need to make up for that “barn burner” in Oakland. One would think this is a great opportunity for them to do so, but who knows? I’ll still take the Jets at home against the struggling, running back-less, and quarterback-less Chiefs.

ATL 4-2 at PHI 3-3

Both of these teams are coming off of a bye. Even though Philadelphia looks to right its ship after a few stunning defeats this season, I just have a feeling that Atlanta is coming in confident while Philly is thinking it’s a team they should beat as long as they play well. Atlanta pulls the upset.

CLE 2-5 at JAC

Cleveland looked like they were righting the ship when they blasted the Giants on Monday Night Football. However, their showing in Washington last weekend wasn’t promising and Jacksonville is not a team to play around with. Jaguars win.

CIN 0-7 at HOU 2-4

Houston looks like they’re ready to keep opponents on their toes finally. But the Bengals aren’t a team you worry about keeping on their toes. Texans win at home.

NYG 5-1 at PIT 5-1

The Steelers will be without Willie Parker, and Santonio Holmes. But they do have Casey Hampton returning to help stop the Giants powerful run game. Eli’s stats have dipped lately and I think that will continue this week, and while both teams are getting to the quarterback at a high rate, I will go with the Steelers just because they’re at home.

SEA 1-5 at SF 2-5

In all honesty, the Niners should win this game. But in all honesty, both teams are pretty bad. Still, the Niners are a few notches more consistent than the Seahawks. San Fran wins.

IND 3-3 at TEN 6-0

It’s make or break time for the Colts. I believe it’s wake up time for the Titans who have been riding a fairly easy schedule. I’ll take the Colts to pull off what most people will call an upset by getting the victory.

 

 

Fantasy Football Free Agent Strategys Week 8

If you have been playing fantasy football, you can see that this year has been pretty different than in years past. This year, there are a several big name players who just haven’t been producing the ways we thought they would on draft day. One example of this for many of us, is Chad Johnson AKA Ocho cinco AKA Ocho Stinko. Chad Johnson numbers have been nothing more than pathetic, this season.  He has not posted over 60 yards in any game and he also only has 2 td’s. This is a fantasy nightmare, Chad just has not been himself to say the least and it sucks because most people don’t know when to cut their losses, especially when it is a previously elite wide out. Week 8 byes are Chicago, Denver, Green Bay, Minnesota. However, you can still get quality pickups and starts through some of the top Free Agency moves. Their are alot of sleeper and great pickups out there in fantasy leagues so keep your eyes on these players.

1. Antonio Byrant- He has been playing, while Joey Galloway has been rehabbing a injury, John Gruden has stated that this WR has earned the Number 1 role and will not be moved no matter what during the rest of the season. Antonio Bryant was a top pick and has the potential to lead the league leaders in stats for a wide-out. This year, He has posted great numbers while Garcia has been in. Considering that Garcia is now the starter, Antonio will be a great pickup for anyone trying to revamp their wide outs. He is only owned in 60% of fantasy leagues so jump on him now!

2.Jeff Garcia- He won’t win you a fantasy title, but he definitely won’t cost  you one. Jeff Garcia has been one of the most consistent fantasy QB’s over the last two years. If you are looking to add depth to your QB positions, look no further. He has been named the starter for the remainder of the season. He is only owned in 52% of fantasy leagues and that is just wrong. After a 300 yard outing in week 7 I would have though he would have been a top pick up in free agency.

3. Cedric Benson- I am not saying this guy is going to be a superstar back this season, but he has a renewed sense of urgency. This guy knows that he needs to get it done, and had a good showing on the Steelers piling up over 50 yards on the stingiest defenses against the run. Cedric Benson will not have the superior blocking he had at Chicago, but I guarantee you he will have a better attitude. He knows that he will have to work for everything. He has been named the starting RB for the remainder of the season, if you need another RB he is another person to look at. He is owned only in 39% of fantasy leagues so he is a definite sleeper pickup.

Other Notable pick ups

4. Lamont Jordan- For week 8, if Sammy Morris is injured and can’t go you must go with Jordan. The patriots have ran by committee all year but now they have no choice. If Morris does not play Lamont is the only RB with experience on the team.

5. Sammy Morris- Looks like the RB of the Pats future. Keep your eye on this guy. Remember last season he outplayed Maroney for the starting spot early in the season. I would not be surprised to see this guy being the staple of the Pats offense for the remainder of this season.

6. Cadillac (Carnell) Williams- This man is a elite NFL RB, who has been rehabbing his injury for over a year now. He was a top recruit and will be returning off the PUP list during Week 8. John Gruden has liked what he has seen from Cadillac and has stated that with him back, the Bucs will without fail receive a boost. It is very possible with Warwick Dunn hurt that he will receive a bulk of the carries and may reclaim his starting role sending Earnest Graham back to the FB position. Keep your eyes on this guy due to his explosive potential. Also if you need a RB and you have the room pick this guy up, the good in this case shouldoutweigh the bad later in this season. Personally, I am going to ride this pickup later on in the season to a fantasy championship.

Can Underachieving NFL Favorites Keep Pace with the Rest of the League?

Before the start of the 2008 NFL season there were four sure-fire Super Bowl favorites; the Dallas Cowboys, San Diego Chargers, Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots. So far after seven weeks only the Patriots seem to have any type of competitive balance with a 4-2 record and only one game behind AFC East leading Buffalo Bills at 5-1.

The aforementioned teams have not faired so well and are a combined 10-10.

Even though Tony Romo is out, there is no excuse for the lack of effort the Cowboys showed in their 34-14 blowout in St. Louis. They have allowed two upstart teams, the Redskins and Cardinals, and a bottom-feeder in St. Louis get wins against them. Even though Romo was in against the two upstarts, he has averaged at least one turnover per game.

The Chargers have been the epitomy of inconsistency through seven games going loss, loss, win, win, loss, win, loss en-route to a 3-4 record. Traveling east has not helped them as they go forward three time zones every time. Now they have to go eight time zones to play the Saints in London this weekend!

Brady-Less Patriots Still a Force in the NFL

The 2008 week seven edition of Monday Night Football was not what most viewers probably expected it to be. They expected to see the highly-touted Broncos offense rack up yardage and if the Patriots were to have a chance at this game they would have had to keep up somehow behind the inexperience throwing arm of Matt Cassel.

However, the Broncos turned the ball over five different times and gave up huge rushing lanes to Sammy Morris and the other representatives of the New England backfield. Matt Cassel was able to complete an efficient outing going 18 for 24 passing, 185 yards, 3 TDs and no interceptions. And what’s more is that the Patriots have kept pace with the 5-1 Buffalo Bills after boosting their record to 4-2.

The Pats may not be a favorite Super Bowl pick anymore after the season ending injury of Tom Brady but they are doing what most coaches preach as the best way to secure a playoff berth, and that’s win your division. If the veteran talent of the New England Patriots can continue to support Matt Cassel and win some games, they may be able to surpass the young roster of the Buffalo Bills at the end of the season.

Monday Night Follow up

Well first I would like to say sorry to those of you who used my Monday Night pick for anything.  Secoond I would just like to site conspieracy as Mike and Bill conspired to make me look silly Monday night.  The patriots route the Broncos as they  commit turnover after turnover and lose their key asset at corner the Champ.  Now I know nobody called this game to end up the way it did but I must have some egg on my face, make that over easy.  On the birght side their is always next week and the week after…… give me the next 3 weeks as I am sure that is what it will take to restore your faith in my picks, but you will see all of those will be correct. “This was a fluke”.

Mad’Nuff NFL Monday Night Guarantee

Mad’Nuff Monday Night Guarantee

 

Well Sportsroiders it has been a while but I am back just in time to give you my Monday night guarantee.   This week we have the New England Patriots against the Denver Broncos this is a very tough call.  When you look at the two coaches, it is quite scary thinking of how each is planning to destroy the other this week.  So…….what are we going to see this Monday you ask?  Well look for the Broncos to put up a lot of points in a lopsided victory.  An ageing Patriots Defense will have trouble against the Shannohan machine.  With Matt Cassel managing the game it is going to put them behind early and when it comes to turn it on to get the lead back the Patriots will score a view bringing the score within reach.  However it will be too little too late.

 

Point Spread: Denver (31-14)

 

Look for the Broncos to win by three scores yes it is a rather high number but the Patriots will not have an answer to the youth of the Broncos offense; and Matt Cassel is going to make a mistake to give the Broncos 3 or 7 to take the lead by 3 scores

 

 

Alex V’s NFL Week 7 Picks

S.D. at BUF-I’m sure by now everyone’s noticed the western teams don’t do too well when they travel to the far east. But I think San Diego’s got this.

N.O. at CAR-New Orleans is so inconsistent. But I think they’ll get it together in Carolina.

MIN at CHI-Both teams have good defense, good running games, and averaging passing games. I’ll take the team at home… Chicago.

PIT at CIN-Cincinnati is reeling and Big Ben is 5-0 all time in Cincinnati. Steelers win.

TEN at KC-Kansas City won’t even have Larry Johnson for this game. Titans win.

BAL at MIA-Miami is rolling too hard offensively for Joe Flacco to keep up with and pretty soon this Ravens’ defense will begin to slack since they have no offensive help.

S.F. at NYG-The giants blew it last week, but they can’t lose to this 2-4 trash at home. Giants win.

DAL at STL-Romo or Johnson? Who knows? The Cowboys are reeling losing two of their last three. I just have a feeling this is an upset in the making. Rams win. 

DET at HOU-Houston can at least play competitively and have shown offense. Detroit’s only close game was last week when they lost 10-12. Houston should shred them.

IND at G.B.-Even though Indianapolis seemed to hit its stride last week, Aaron Rodgers is playing pretty stellar and the Packer defense is better than the Colts’. I’ll go with Green Bay.

NYJ at OAK-Brett Favre is undefeated in Oakland all-time. That shall remain the same.

CLE at WAS-Both teams were complete opposites from one another last week. Washington was on the rise and lost to a bottom dweller, while Cleveland was a disappointment and beat a championship contender. Now that they’ve got their heads on straight, I’ll take Washington.

SEA at T.B.-Seattle is 1-4 and has been downright atrocious on both sides of the ball. Tampa wins.

DEN at N.E.-Denver has been inconsistent the last few weeks but the Patriots have been the same. I’ll take the Pats at home against Belichick’s football IQ.

Laveranues Coles…CATCH THE DAMN BALL!

By The Boinger

Dear Laveranues, Brett Favre is a better quarterback than Chad Pennington. It took Randy

Moss one quarter to prove he was still Randy Moss last year when opening the season against the Jets. The Patriots went from “contenders” to outright “favorites” after that game because Randy Moss went out and caught the damn ball. He did not cry and whine or beg or plead or offer any built in excuses about playing with a new QB or being in a new system. In fact neither did Wes Welker. They had no problem going out every down, running their routes, catching the ball or even making blocks down field. Now why should it be any different for you? You went out and made a big deal about your contract for a second time now with the Jets and you have not produced. You have not proved that you are the go to guy for any one of your QB’s. Tony Romo went out and won the job because he could find T.O. no problem any time any place. Everything else fell into place for him after establishing that. You do not offer that to your QB. Not Brett, Kellen,Chad,Patrick Ramsey, Mark Brunell or Vinny. If they cannot count on you to be there on every down why do you deserve number 1 money? What do you offer any team as a number 1? At best even with a HOF as your QB you were still at best a BYE week replacement fantasy WR. So far through two game you have not done anything to prove otherwise. Chansi Stuckey is outplaying you. Is he better than you? No! No? Well he sure is playing like it and he is playing with more desire than you and it shows. Not

to mention he’s got no problem catching passes from a guy who never threw a pass his way before a few weeks ago. If you cannot get excited about playing every week with Brett Favre then what are you doing here? We anxiously await your answer or your departure, which ever comes cheaper!

Defense Wins Championships?

By Alex V

Defense Wins Championships or Great Quarterbacking?

One of the longest standing arguments in today’s NFL has been the viewpoint that it takes a strong defense to become a champion. Over the past few years teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Pittsburgh Steelers have been able to remain in at least competitive contention, if not championship contention, due to their outstandingly consistent play on defense. However, in this writer’s eyes, the most important factor in helping a team turn the corner from respectability to prominence has been the position of quarterback.

Over the past ten years alone, almost every Super Bowl champion has been led by a pro-bowl caliber, if not perennial pro-bowl quarterback. In most cases a good defense played a key role in each winner’s success, but on most of those teams, there was strong quarterback play involved as well.

During the 1998 season the Denver Broncos won the title with John Elway, and everyone knows how great he was. In 1999, the St. Louis Rams became league champions behind the light-out play of MVP quarterback Kurt Warner. Everybody will remember the Greatest Show on Turf as one of those teams that had such a great offense, they could overcome sub par-to-average defense to win games. In 2000, the Baltimore Ravens would make a name in history as one of those teams that could overcome average, but not great, offensive play with a tenacious defense that created turnovers and stymied opponents week in and week out with its defense.

Let’s use a paragraph too look a little deeper at those 2000 Ravens. That team’s defense was so good that it held three regular season opponents to seven points, their Super Bowl opponent to seven points (the New York Giants), one regular season opponent to three points, and three post-season opponents to three points (the Wild Card Denver Broncos and the AFC Championship host Oakland Raiders), and four regular season opponents to zero points. How often does a defense that strong come along? Not too often I would say. I gahter that that the 2000 Ravens and the 1985 Bears were two teams in NFL history that literally succeeded almost an entire season based solely on excellent defense.

In 2001, Tom Brady came along and got his first Super Bowl title when he drove his team downfield to kick a game-winning field goal. In 2002, another team with a great defense raised the Lombardi Trophy and this time it was the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, Brad Johnson was Tampa’s quarterback that year and in 13 regular season games, finished the season with 22 touchdown passes against six interceptions, a 62.3% completion percentage, and a 92.9 Quarterback rating (the best of his career). The next two years would conclude with Tom Brady’s Patriots coming out on top, where-in 2003 Tom Brady led yet another drive downfield for a game-winning field goal, and in 2004 it was Brady and the Patriots who got the trophy.

In 2005 the surprise Pittsburgh Steelers came out on top. Even though it was the defense that showed up in the Super Bowl and not Ben Roethlisberger, it was Big Ben’s dazzling play in Cincinnati in the Wild Card round (14-19 passing for 74%, 208 yards, and 3 TDs), in Indianapolis in the Divisional Round (14-24 passing, 197 yards, and 2 TDs with one INT), and in Denver in the AFC Championship Game (21-29 passing, 275 yards, 2 passing TDs, and one rushing TD) that got them there. In this case it was strong defense and strong quarterback play that produced a champion.

In 2006 Peyton Manning and the strong play of the Colts’ defense won the title. Finally, last year, even though the Giants had a great pass-rushing defense while leading the league in sacks, nobody would have picked New York to come out on top if it hadn’t been for Eli Manning’s highly unexpected pro-bowl level of play throughout the post-season, including the Super Bowl.

I want everybody to take a long step back when they think that defense wins championships, because in all reality it takes a solid defense coupled by strong quarterback play to win a Super Bowl, with a few exceptions every now and then on both sides of the ball. So remember, a great defense will bring you respectability, but it takes a great quarterback to take a team to prominence!

Super Bowl Winner and Quarterback

1997 John Elway

1996 Brett Favre

1995 Troy Aikman

1994 Steve Young

1993 Troy Aikman

1992 Troy Aikman

1991 Mark Rypien

1990 Jeff Hostetler

1989 Joe Montana

1988 Joe Montana

1987 Doug Williams

1986 Phil Simms

1985 Jim McMahon

1984 Joe Montana

1983 Jim Plunkett

1982 Joe Theismann

1981 Joe Montana

1980 Jim Plunkett

1979 Terry Bradshaw

1978 Terry Bradshaw

1977 Roger Staubach

1976 Ken Stabler

1975 Terry Bradshaw

1974 Terry Bradshaw

1973 Bob Griese

1972 Bob Griese

1971 Roger Staubach

1970 Johnny Unitas

1969 Len Dawson

1968 Joe Namath

1967 Bart Starr

1966 Bart Starr

Alex V’s Week 2 Predictions

by Alex V

It is hard to gauge a team after only one week of play. But that is what Alex V. is going to do anyways. We’ll see how I do and I’ll even keep track! Week in and week out from here-on-in. We’re gonna see who actually gives a shit!

CHI at CAR

The Panthers went toe-to-toe with the Chargers last weekend and showed a lot of heart pulling out a two-minute drill drive to pull out their victory. However, the Bears showed more consistency with their playmaking defense, strong running, and turnover free passing game. I say the Bears win.

TEN at CIN

Cincinnati is a team in shambles. They are starting this season right where they left off last year, and if they don’t improve soon they’ll easily finish the same way they did last year… going nowhere. The Titans won last week with their usual great defense and key, if not strong, offensive play. Aided by a veteran quarterback in Kerry Collins, and a strong defense, I’m going with the Titans over the defensively challenged and no-offensive chemistry having Bengals.

GB at DET

Detroit showed last week that they have no defense. Even though Michael Turner is highly-touted, there is no excuse for giving up that much yardage against a team who should have the box stacked against them while sporting a rookie quarterback. Aaron Rodgers showed a lot of promise last week, and just about every other piece of a 13-3 team from last year remains this year too. This is an easy one. Packers win.

BUF at JAC

Jacksonville did what they do best last week… play to the level of their opponent. Buffalo looks like a team on the rise. The Jaguars would be hard-pressed to play to the level of Buffalo, because they are running on pure youthful energy and excitement. I’m really feeling Buffalo pulling out the victory in a close contest.

OAK at KC

Honestly, who cares about this game aside from Raiders and Chiefs fans? In reality the NFL is crazy, and both these teams have many weeks to turn out one of the surprise teams of the year. But in a strong AFC, that is so not going to happen. This game is a toss-up! I’ll go with the veteran experience of the Chiefs over the undisciplined inexperience of the Raiders.

IND at MIN

Last week, Indy’s offense laid an egg against the Bears. On the contrary, the Vikings kept their game versus the Packers last week competitive. Indy is charged with facing another team like they did last week; strong defense, great running game, and desirably a game-managing quarterback. However, I don’t think Tarvaris Jackson is ready to lead this team. Surprisingly though, something in my gut tells me upset special once again. I’m going with the Vikings!

NYG at STL

The Rams are another team who have started this season right where they left off last season. The Rams looked like the standard defense they usually are as they missed tackles and gave up big plays, while their inept offense produced just 158 passing yards, and 36 rushing yards to the Eagles 368 passing yards, and 108 rushing yards. The Giants defense looked like they could be just as disruptive as they were last year, even without Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora. I won’t even bother wasting another sentence analyzing the Rams. Giants win.

NO at WAS

New Orleans looks like they are ready to make good on the promise they displayed in 2006. The Redskins look like a team still trying to see where they stand with Jason Campbell at the helm. Even though the Skins won the last time these teams met, I believe it will be the Saints’ offense and improving defense that gets the better of Washington.

SF at SEA

The 49ers started off pretty decently against the Cardinals last week going up 10-3 at one point. However, they finished on the wrong end of a 23-13 score. The Seahawks look like they are on the usual road to mediocrity that they’ve been traveling the two years before the Super Bowl run, and the two years since. With JT O-Who taking snaps for the Niners, I give this one to Seattle since they play at home and tend to show a little more consistency there than on the road.

ATL at TB

Last week Matt Ryan played solidly going 9 for 13 with 161 yards, one touchdown, and no turnovers. But that was last week. And last week’s opponent was the untamed Lions. The Buccaneers will be coming off a crushing season-opening loss against a division rival, like the one they’ll be facing this week. And although the Bucs may be getting old, the coaching staff and players should still be wily enough to force the young QB into making a few mistakes. I’ll go with the Buccaneers.

MIA at ARI

The Dolphins will have no business improving too much this year. This team should be rebuilding, but they are starting an aging and skill deteriorating Chad Pennington, and have known highly-regarded draft picks. Even though the Cardinals start an older QB in Kurt Warner, at least he can throw deep consistently, whereas Pennington throws either low or to the other team rather consistently. Cardinals are on the rise, so Cardinals are in the “W” column.

SD at DEN

San Diego blew a home opener this weekend by losing. But they allowed that against a team who is easily a contender when Jake Delhomme is in the line-up and, most of all, healthy. Denver looked promising with their blow-out of the Raiders. But Oakland played so badly that it is tough to gauge the Broncos’ place in the 2008 season. Until the Broncos beat a worthy opponent, I’ll put my money on the Chargers to win this one.

NE at NYJ

This game is funny. It won’t b Brady vs. Pennington. It will be Cassel vs. Favre! Even though the Jets showed big play ability against the Dolphins last week, they still could have lost if Pennington would have been able to get Miami into the end zone in the final two minutes of their game last weekend. The Patriots also won in a rather nail biting fashion as they almost let one go into overtime against the Chiefs. Matt Cassel had to settle into a game he didn’t have the feel of from the beginning. The Jets are still growing, while every other piece on the Patriots knows where it stands aside from Matt Cassel. I’ll go with the Patriots.

PIT at CLE

The Steelers last week looked great in almost every facet of the game; an O-line pushing defensive front, ball-hawking and ball-carrier shadowing linebackers, solid secondary play, and great running mixed in with some efficient passing. Cleveland embarrassed themselves at home last weekend against a heavily favored Super Bowl contender in Dallas. But they still could have put up a better fight than they did last week based on their offensive potency during the 2007 campaign. The Browns are playing at home, on prime-time television Sunday night, and should be looking to make up for their virtual no-show from last week. However, until the Browns beat the Steelers as they haven’t managed to once in their last seven meetings, I’m still picking the Steelers.

PHI at DAL

Both teams laid waste to their opponents last week. Donovan McNabb looked great going 21 of 33 for 361 yards, three touchdowns, and no turnovers which shouldn’t come as a surprise to people. The only reason he hasn’t posted great numbers the last couple seasons is because of injuries and not because he is past his time as a good number of people believe. The Cowboys looked like a team that simply out-matched their opponent with the dynamic play of Tony Romo, great receivers in Owens, Crayton, Whitten, and a sound defense. However, I think what the Eagles have demonstrated over the last few years is that they always play with passion whereas the Cowboys seem to go through the motions and let their talent do the talking. I’m going with the Eagles to attain a close, but convincing win against the Cowboys on Monday Night Football

BAL at HOU

Good old hurricane Ike has forced these two teams to move their games to Monday Night as well… just not Monday Night Football. The Ravens managed to beat the hapless Bengals last week with good defense and a few key plays here and there on offense (namely rookie quarterback Joe Flacco’s 38 yard rushing TD). Houston looked downright awful last week as they struggled to move the ball all day, and didn’t tackle worth a lick on defense. However, the Texans are the same team from last year that finished 8-8 and looked to be improving, while the Ravens are still the same team that finished last year at 5-11 and looked like they needed to rebuild with the retirement of Steve McNair. I’m going with the Texans at home.

NFL Game Picks for Week 2 (no point spread)

Week 2 NFL PICKS

Composed by Mark M (12-4)

COLTS AT VIKINGS
My Pick: Colts

GIANTS AT RAMS
My Pick: Giants

BILLS AT JAGUARS:

My Pick: Jaguars

RAVENS AT TEXANS
My Pick: Ravens

PATRIOTS AT JETS
My Pick: Patriots

PACKERS AT LIONS
My Pick: Packers

TITANS AT BENGALS
My Pick: Titans

RAIDERS AT CHIEFS
My Pick: Chiefs

SAINTS AT REDSKINS
My Pick: Redskins

BEARS AT PANTHERS
My Pick: Bears

FALCONS AT BUCCANEERS
My Pick: Buccaneers

DOLPHINS AT CARDINALS
My Pick: Dolphins

STEELERS AT BROWNS
My Pick: Steelers

EAGLES AT COWBOYS
My Pick: Eagles

CHARGERS AT BRONCOS
My Pick: Broncos

49ERS AT SEAHAWKS
Pick: Seahawks

There they are. I know there are a few upsets but I really believe is this how it is going to pan out for week 2 of the NFL’s 2008 season. Please post back if there is anything you really don’t like and want to debate.

Matt Cassel Fantasy Stock Rising

By Alex V

If you’re looking for an insurance policy for your fantasy team at the quarterback position, look none further than Matt Cassel. The obvious reasons why Cassel could turn out to be a good pickup may be Randy Moss and Wes Welker, and even dump-off pass catching play makers like Kevin Faulk and perhaps even Ben Watson.However, there are three other reasons why I’ll say that Matt Cassel is a good guy to spend a buck on right now.

Number one would be if you’ve drafted one of the more injury-prone quarter backs, like Donovan McNabb, Ben Roethlisberger, or even Jake Delhomme. If you have one of these guys on your team or another like them, Matt Cassel could wind up saving your season.

If you need a little belief, look none further than reason number two! Laurence Maroney, up until the Patriots game against the Chiefs this weekend, has averaged just 13.3 carries per game, and that includes last year when he was the feature back. His numbers are likely to go up with Tom Brady being gone, but he’s more of a scatty flashback type than a work horse so perhaps 16-17 total is most likely. Ergo, Matt Cassel should still average anywhere from 175-225 passing yards per game, and if Maroney can’t punch it in the red zone, then Cassel could get the call, so he could be a great pick up.

The final key reason for joining in the “Cassel Run” is the aging defense of the Patriots. New England’s defensive unit may be slowing down as the season moves along with veterans starters at the linebacker position; Teddy Bruschi, 35, Mike Vrabel, 34, and Adalius Thomas, 31. Even in the secondary where strong safety Rodney Harrison sits at age 35, the burden may be on the defensive line in a 3-4 scheme to create pressure for the majority of the Patriots’ games this season. This should create more situations where the Patriots will be forced to pass, rather than to prefer to pass like last year when going to Tom Brady was the ideal option.

My suggestion… at least don’t sleep on the potential of Matt Cassel. What he lacks in game experience, he could wind up making up for in the privilege of having gotten to watch and learn from one of the greats, in Tom Brady.

Down goes Brady, Down goes Frazier!

By Madison Mad’Nuff

Down Goes Frazier:

Down Goes Frazier! Down goes Frazier!! Tom Brady went down in week 1 with a torn ACL and now it seems the MVP is out for the season. I don’t expect any miracles but with the Patriots you never know. So as all of New England sheds a tear, and the rest of the free world throws a party and no one is partying harder than Miami, Buffalo, and New York fans. Not because a great athlete got hurt. Nope not at all. No one wants anybody to get hurt, but no nobody wants to see Tom Brady play against their teams either. I will admit that I to cracked I rejoiceful smile when I found out, (Come on you did too, admit it) . “What does this mean?” you ask. It means no Super Bowl repeats for the Pats. Wait but it’s week 1 you say. Let’s be honest with Tom Brady out the Pats are going to struggle all year.

Mark’s NFL PICKS OF THE WEEK

1. Sunday, Sept. 7 Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens 1 p.m

MY PICK: Ravens

2. Sunday, Sept. 7 New York Jets at Miami Dolphins 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jets

3. Sunday, Sept. 7 Kansas City Chiefs at New England Patriots 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pats

4. Sunday, Sept. 7 Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pittsburgh

5. Sunday, Sept. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jacksonville

6. Sunday, Sept. 7 Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Falcons

7. Sunday, Sept. 7 Seattle Seahawks at Buffalo Bills 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Bills

8. Sunday, Sept. 7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints

MY PICK: Saints

9. Sunday, Sept. 7 St. Louis Rams at Philadelphia Eagles 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Eagles

10. Sunday, Sept. 7 Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Dallas

11. Sunday, Sept. 7 Carolina Panthers at San Diego Chargers 4:15 p.m

MY PICK: Chargers

12. Sunday, Sept. 7 Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: 49ers

13. Sunday, Sept. 7 Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts 8:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Colts

14 Monday, Sept. 8 Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers 7 p.m.

MY PICK: Green Bay Packers

15 Monday, Sept. 8 Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders 10:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Denver Broncos

-Mark M

Mark’s NFL PICKS OF THE WEEK

1. Sunday, Sept. 7 Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens 1 p.m

MY PICK: Ravens

2. Sunday, Sept. 7 New York Jets at Miami Dolphins 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jets

3. Sunday, Sept. 7 Kansas City Chiefs at New England Patriots 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pats

4. Sunday, Sept. 7 Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pittsburgh

5. Sunday, Sept. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jacksonville

6. Sunday, Sept. 7 Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Falcons

7. Sunday, Sept. 7 Seattle Seahawks at Buffalo Bills 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Bills

8. Sunday, Sept. 7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints

MY PICK: Saints

9. Sunday, Sept. 7 St. Louis Rams at Philadelphia Eagles 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Eagles

10. Sunday, Sept. 7 Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Dallas

11. Sunday, Sept. 7 Carolina Panthers at San Diego Chargers 4:15 p.m

MY PICK: Chargers

12. Sunday, Sept. 7 Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: 49ers

13. Sunday, Sept. 7 Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts 8:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Colts

14 Monday, Sept. 8 Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers 7 p.m.

MY PICK: Green Bay Packers

15 Monday, Sept. 8 Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders 10:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Denver Broncos

-Mark M

NFL KICKOFF only two days away

With NFL, kick off only two days away. We have been seeing many different things going on in the NFL.

Teams are preparing for the season openers and our evaluating Injuries and recent free agency pick ups. Thats nothing new but do you know what is?

CHAD JOHNSON!

One thing that I found very interesting is that I heard a report that Chad Johnson, had legally changed his name to Ocho Cinco.

We all had seen by now that Lynch has been cut by the Patriots whom one can assume will just pick him back up with a lower contract deal.

We also heard the awful news, that Jacksonville Offensive Tackle would not be playing on the field this week because he is fighting for his life, in critical condition. Our prayers go out to him and his family.

“The guys are in shock. You see this kind of thing happen all the time on TV, but you never expect it in your own backyard. He’s a good dude. I just pray for him and his family and wish the best for them. I’m sure he’ll pull through.” explained Fred Taylor, Veteran RB for the Jags.

This pre-season for the Jags has not been that forgiving. Just think only a couple of weeks ago Matt Jones was stuck with a felony drug charge for possession of cocaine, a couple of days ago Fred Taylor was all over the news for being cited as a public disturbance, and now this. The Jags this year seem to be on a bad news media roller coaster.