It's going to be a short post this week, but I will make up for later this weekend.
Last week, I went 2-2, my total record after 3 weeks is 7-5.
Minnesota (-1.5) @ Kansas City.
The battle of the 0-3. I honestly thought Minnesota would be much better. I thought Donovan McNabb would show the Eagles and Redskins, they made a huge mistake. Well, McNabb may not make it through the rest of the season and his Hall of Fame hopes will go by the waste side. Bottom line, Adrian Peterson is the best player on the field and I see the Vikings coming out victorious.
Vikings 28 - Chiefs 13
Philadelphia (-6.5) against San Francisco.
The Eagles will blow the 49ers.
Eagles 44 - 49ers 21
Baltimore (-3.5) against NY Jets
Ravens 24 - Jets 20
Upset Special
Dallas (-3.5) against Detroit
Lions are for real
Lions 28 - Cowboys 20.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Friday, September 23, 2011
NFL Week 3
So here we are, week 3 of the NFL season and things are starting to fall into place. The Lions are pretty good and the Chiefs are pretty bad. The Chargers have a lot of work to do to compete with New England in January. Ryan Fitzpatrick is exactly the kind of leader the Bills need and this is why they are 2-0 so far.
My biggest surprise is Washington. I honestly didn't think they would be playing as well as they are. Granted, they really haven't been tested, but 2 wins is still 2 wins. I still don't like Mike Shanahan, I don't think Rex Grossman is a second tier quarterback. I don't see Washington winning more than 8 games this season, but after 2 weeks, they are truly surprising me.
Here is my Power Rankings Top 10:
1. New England
2. Green Bay
3. Houston Texans
4. New York Jets
5. New Orleans Saints
6. Baltimore Ravens
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Detroit Lions
9. Washington Redskins
10. San Diego Chargers
If the Dolphins do not beat the Browns in Cleveland this weekend, I predict huge changes, namely, the first coaching casualty.
Last week, I went 3-1, to make my 2 week total 5-3. So here are this weeks picks:
Cincinnati -3.5 against San Francisco.
Alex Smith suffered a concussion in last week's Cowboy game. Andy Daulton has been brilliant this season so far and I think him and AJ Green will be huge at home against San Fran.
Bengals 28 - 49ers 17
New Orleans -3.5 against Houston.
I really like Houston this season, as much as everyone else does apparently. I think they have a great mix on the offensive side of the ball and their defense is much improved. New Orleans is one of these machine teams, that can just put up numbers. I expect a pretty high scoring game on the turf in the Superdome, but I see New Orleans winning on their last possession.
Saints 38 - Texans 31
Pittsburgh -10.5 @ Indianapolis
Pittsburgh woke up from that kick in the butt week 1 and Indy isn't that good without Peyton Manning. After this season, Manning will get some MVP votes just because of his value to this team. Steelers will be playing with a chip on their shoulder and after this game, Manning gets IRed and Painter will find his way behind center in the next few weeks.
Steelers 34 - Colts 19
Upset Special
NY Jets -3.5 @ Oakland
The Raiders are pretty good this season and played valiantly against the Bills last week. Probably should have won that game, but playing a 1pm game on the road, it doesn't surprise me. I see the Raiders coming out this week and pounding the ball down the Jets throats. I also see the Raiders Defense all over Mark Sanchez and confusing him to the point, he might be benched for the end of the game.
Raiders 37 - Jets 21
My biggest surprise is Washington. I honestly didn't think they would be playing as well as they are. Granted, they really haven't been tested, but 2 wins is still 2 wins. I still don't like Mike Shanahan, I don't think Rex Grossman is a second tier quarterback. I don't see Washington winning more than 8 games this season, but after 2 weeks, they are truly surprising me.
Here is my Power Rankings Top 10:
1. New England
2. Green Bay
3. Houston Texans
4. New York Jets
5. New Orleans Saints
6. Baltimore Ravens
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Detroit Lions
9. Washington Redskins
10. San Diego Chargers
If the Dolphins do not beat the Browns in Cleveland this weekend, I predict huge changes, namely, the first coaching casualty.
Last week, I went 3-1, to make my 2 week total 5-3. So here are this weeks picks:
Cincinnati -3.5 against San Francisco.
Alex Smith suffered a concussion in last week's Cowboy game. Andy Daulton has been brilliant this season so far and I think him and AJ Green will be huge at home against San Fran.
Bengals 28 - 49ers 17
New Orleans -3.5 against Houston.
I really like Houston this season, as much as everyone else does apparently. I think they have a great mix on the offensive side of the ball and their defense is much improved. New Orleans is one of these machine teams, that can just put up numbers. I expect a pretty high scoring game on the turf in the Superdome, but I see New Orleans winning on their last possession.
Saints 38 - Texans 31
Pittsburgh -10.5 @ Indianapolis
Pittsburgh woke up from that kick in the butt week 1 and Indy isn't that good without Peyton Manning. After this season, Manning will get some MVP votes just because of his value to this team. Steelers will be playing with a chip on their shoulder and after this game, Manning gets IRed and Painter will find his way behind center in the next few weeks.
Steelers 34 - Colts 19
Upset Special
NY Jets -3.5 @ Oakland
The Raiders are pretty good this season and played valiantly against the Bills last week. Probably should have won that game, but playing a 1pm game on the road, it doesn't surprise me. I see the Raiders coming out this week and pounding the ball down the Jets throats. I also see the Raiders Defense all over Mark Sanchez and confusing him to the point, he might be benched for the end of the game.
Raiders 37 - Jets 21
Friday, September 16, 2011
Week 2
Now that the NFL season is here and things are going to start to fall in place this week, you will pretty much get an idea who are the best 15 teams and who are the worse. Teams like the Redskins, might start off 2-0, but I just don't see them making the playoffs. Indianapolis is in a lot of trouble, If they start off 0-2, I see a lot of changes taking place for the rest of the season. If they go 1-3 or 0-4, they will definitely IR Peyton Manning and call this season a wash.
Anyway, last week I went 2-2, just under my usual percentage of getting games right, 52%. Here are my week 2 picks.
Indianapolis +2 against Cleveland. I honestly thought the Browns would be the surprise team in the AFC this year. New coach, but good young QB, Solid Running game, decent passing game, up and coming O Line, Good Defense. The Browns made me look stupid last week. I picked them to beat the Bengals in a Survivor Pool. Let's face it, Rookie QB playing a divisional rival on the road in opener? What were the odds the Browns would stink up the joint. The Browns showed their color and it matches their name. The Colts looked completely out of sync against Houston and that was definitely to be expected, but this week Kerry Collins had an opportunity to see the film and they will come up with a plan. If they were playing any other team, I would think the Colts would be 0-2, but being Home Dogs against the Browns, I gotta pick Indy.
Colts 24 - Browns 17
Pittsburgh -14.5 against Seattle. The Steelers looked awful in the second half last week against the Ravens. I am a firm believer in teams can get old very fast, I just didn't think the Steelers are that team and I still don't. I think they needed a kick in the butt and the Ravens gave it to them. I see Big Ben at home with a chip on his shoulder and Mike Tomlin motivating them for a huge homecoming. Seattle is just one of those teams that is average at best in a bad division. I am not a huge Tavarous Jackson fan and I see them coming east to get pounded and head home 0-2
Steelers 38 - Seahawks 13
Miami -2.5 against Houston
I am riding Houston until they loss. The Dolphins score might have been somewhat close last week against the Pats, but the game wasn't that close. It seemed like they were getting toyed with. Chad Henne had a nice game, but I expect a lot worse this week. Reggie Bush wants to step up as an every down back, I am not sure if he has it in him. Houston is a machine and with Aerian Foster probably playing this week, I see a pretty big offensive outburst.
Texans 31 - Dolphins 21
Upset Special
San Francisco -3.5 against Dallas
This isn't much of an upset, but Dallas played well for 3 quarters against the Jets, but Jason Garrett called a lousy 4th quarter. He won't make the same mistake this week. Alex Smith is a decent Quarterback, but I think the Dallas Defense will contain him and Frank Gore.
Cowboys 23 - 49ers 10
Anyway, last week I went 2-2, just under my usual percentage of getting games right, 52%. Here are my week 2 picks.
Indianapolis +2 against Cleveland. I honestly thought the Browns would be the surprise team in the AFC this year. New coach, but good young QB, Solid Running game, decent passing game, up and coming O Line, Good Defense. The Browns made me look stupid last week. I picked them to beat the Bengals in a Survivor Pool. Let's face it, Rookie QB playing a divisional rival on the road in opener? What were the odds the Browns would stink up the joint. The Browns showed their color and it matches their name. The Colts looked completely out of sync against Houston and that was definitely to be expected, but this week Kerry Collins had an opportunity to see the film and they will come up with a plan. If they were playing any other team, I would think the Colts would be 0-2, but being Home Dogs against the Browns, I gotta pick Indy.
Colts 24 - Browns 17
Pittsburgh -14.5 against Seattle. The Steelers looked awful in the second half last week against the Ravens. I am a firm believer in teams can get old very fast, I just didn't think the Steelers are that team and I still don't. I think they needed a kick in the butt and the Ravens gave it to them. I see Big Ben at home with a chip on his shoulder and Mike Tomlin motivating them for a huge homecoming. Seattle is just one of those teams that is average at best in a bad division. I am not a huge Tavarous Jackson fan and I see them coming east to get pounded and head home 0-2
Steelers 38 - Seahawks 13
Miami -2.5 against Houston
I am riding Houston until they loss. The Dolphins score might have been somewhat close last week against the Pats, but the game wasn't that close. It seemed like they were getting toyed with. Chad Henne had a nice game, but I expect a lot worse this week. Reggie Bush wants to step up as an every down back, I am not sure if he has it in him. Houston is a machine and with Aerian Foster probably playing this week, I see a pretty big offensive outburst.
Texans 31 - Dolphins 21
Upset Special
San Francisco -3.5 against Dallas
This isn't much of an upset, but Dallas played well for 3 quarters against the Jets, but Jason Garrett called a lousy 4th quarter. He won't make the same mistake this week. Alex Smith is a decent Quarterback, but I think the Dallas Defense will contain him and Frank Gore.
Cowboys 23 - 49ers 10
Thursday, September 15, 2011
NBA's Impasse
Coming off one of the most successful, talked about seasons in recent memory, the National Basketball Association rewards it's fans with a lockout. Unlike the NFL's work stoppage where the two sides were trying to figure out how to split $9.2 Billions, The NBA's lockout is trying to figure out how to make 75% of it's league viable and profitable.
Can't say I blame anyone but David Stern and the NBA. Instead of marketing the game of basketball and the 30 franchises, DS has been marketing the stars of the NBA. So why would anyone in Sacramento want to pay to see Philadelphia? They wouldn't and don't. The NBA has a handful of stars and they are all on the same teams, making those few teams must see. The Networks put those superstar laden teams on every night, thus who cares about those 20 or so other teams?
Basketball is global, so there are options for every NBA player to go and play elsewhere during this lockout. In the long run, it will probably help the NBA because more worldwide fans will recognize these players. But in the short time, the lockout will benefit the NHL, College Hoops and families everywhere who want to spend some quality time together, not watching the NBA.
I offer some solutions on how to improve the game, ultimately, I think this would help the future of the NBA, but one thing at a time.
1. Focus on the developmental league. There should be a 40 team league, two 20 team conferences with four 5 team divisions. Each NBA franchise has their own development team where their draft picks and free agents can learn how to play the game. They hire former players as coaches and they play in cities close to their franchise. If a highschooler wants to play in the NBA, let him get drafted and if he is not good enough to make the big team his rookie year, let him learn the ropes in the minors. It's been going on in Baseball and Hockey for Years!
2. Hard Salary Cap
3. Revenue Sharing from big market teams to small market teams
4. Bring new crop of referees, who will call a consistent game, no more special calls for superstars, a travel is a travel, 3 seconds is 3 seconds.
5. Teams will be marketed, not only individual
6. Mentoring system to keep these guys out of trouble
I know David Stern would never read the Chaney Report, but I think he would learn from this blog what would make his league better!
Can't say I blame anyone but David Stern and the NBA. Instead of marketing the game of basketball and the 30 franchises, DS has been marketing the stars of the NBA. So why would anyone in Sacramento want to pay to see Philadelphia? They wouldn't and don't. The NBA has a handful of stars and they are all on the same teams, making those few teams must see. The Networks put those superstar laden teams on every night, thus who cares about those 20 or so other teams?
Basketball is global, so there are options for every NBA player to go and play elsewhere during this lockout. In the long run, it will probably help the NBA because more worldwide fans will recognize these players. But in the short time, the lockout will benefit the NHL, College Hoops and families everywhere who want to spend some quality time together, not watching the NBA.
I offer some solutions on how to improve the game, ultimately, I think this would help the future of the NBA, but one thing at a time.
1. Focus on the developmental league. There should be a 40 team league, two 20 team conferences with four 5 team divisions. Each NBA franchise has their own development team where their draft picks and free agents can learn how to play the game. They hire former players as coaches and they play in cities close to their franchise. If a highschooler wants to play in the NBA, let him get drafted and if he is not good enough to make the big team his rookie year, let him learn the ropes in the minors. It's been going on in Baseball and Hockey for Years!
2. Hard Salary Cap
3. Revenue Sharing from big market teams to small market teams
4. Bring new crop of referees, who will call a consistent game, no more special calls for superstars, a travel is a travel, 3 seconds is 3 seconds.
5. Teams will be marketed, not only individual
6. Mentoring system to keep these guys out of trouble
I know David Stern would never read the Chaney Report, but I think he would learn from this blog what would make his league better!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
A look at the weekend that was
What an amazing weekend of sports. Michigan stunning Notre Dame on a last second TD and really putting ND behind the 8 ball. Samantha Stusser stunning Serena Williams to capture her first Grand Slam title at the US Open. Novack Djokavich beating Raffy Nadal to win his third Grand Slam title of the year! And of course all of the 911 tributes made throughout the country.
With NHL training camps starting up this week, I will get into the NHL later this week and I will definitely touch upon the NBA's labor dispute. But today is about Baseball and The NFL. MLB's season is winding down and it's pretty obvious who the playoff teams will be - Phillies will clinch a spot today, The Braves, Brewers and Diamondbacks shortly after. Yankees, Tigers are shoo ins. The Rangers are ahead of the Angels by 3 games, but the Red Sox are fading fast and they are only 2 games ahead of the Rays and they are playing a 4 game series this weekend. Stranger things have happened? Albert Pujols hit his 35th Homerun, love him or hate him, he is simply amazing. The Cardinals will make him the richest player in baseball this offseason. Finally, I have a feeling the White Sox will be in for some serious changes come this off season, maybe coach? Maybe GM? Who knows exactly what, but it will be something.
The NFL really put on display some amazing things this past weekend. Here are my thoughts: The Texans are that good and the Colts will be that Bad. I think The Colts should have put put in Lance Painter to see what the kid has. We know Kerry Collins is an above average Quarterback, but he will only get them so far, let's see what the kids has.
The Chiefs are in trouble as are the Broncos. The West will be won by San Diego by default, as long as they can stay healthy. Speaking of staying healthy, The St. Louis Rams are in trouble. Without Steven Jackson and Danny Amendola for some time, they will need someone to step up and hopefully Sam Bradford's injury will be minor.
The Best of the past week - Baltimore Ravens. When was the last time a team manhandled the Pittsburgh Steelers? The Ravens impressed me so much, their team came together and showed they are ready for the next step.
The Worst of this past week - KC Chiefs. It's gonna be a looong season for the men in red
Player of the week - Cam Newton. Wow, he played like this wasn't the first game of his career.
My power rankings:
1. Baltimore Ravens
2. Green Bay Packers
3. New England Patriots
4. Houston Texans
5. Philadelphia Eagles
6. San Diego Chargers
7. New Orleans Saints
8. Washington Redskins
9. Chicago Bears
10.New York Jets
With NHL training camps starting up this week, I will get into the NHL later this week and I will definitely touch upon the NBA's labor dispute. But today is about Baseball and The NFL. MLB's season is winding down and it's pretty obvious who the playoff teams will be - Phillies will clinch a spot today, The Braves, Brewers and Diamondbacks shortly after. Yankees, Tigers are shoo ins. The Rangers are ahead of the Angels by 3 games, but the Red Sox are fading fast and they are only 2 games ahead of the Rays and they are playing a 4 game series this weekend. Stranger things have happened? Albert Pujols hit his 35th Homerun, love him or hate him, he is simply amazing. The Cardinals will make him the richest player in baseball this offseason. Finally, I have a feeling the White Sox will be in for some serious changes come this off season, maybe coach? Maybe GM? Who knows exactly what, but it will be something.
The NFL really put on display some amazing things this past weekend. Here are my thoughts: The Texans are that good and the Colts will be that Bad. I think The Colts should have put put in Lance Painter to see what the kid has. We know Kerry Collins is an above average Quarterback, but he will only get them so far, let's see what the kids has.
The Chiefs are in trouble as are the Broncos. The West will be won by San Diego by default, as long as they can stay healthy. Speaking of staying healthy, The St. Louis Rams are in trouble. Without Steven Jackson and Danny Amendola for some time, they will need someone to step up and hopefully Sam Bradford's injury will be minor.
The Best of the past week - Baltimore Ravens. When was the last time a team manhandled the Pittsburgh Steelers? The Ravens impressed me so much, their team came together and showed they are ready for the next step.
The Worst of this past week - KC Chiefs. It's gonna be a looong season for the men in red
Player of the week - Cam Newton. Wow, he played like this wasn't the first game of his career.
My power rankings:
1. Baltimore Ravens
2. Green Bay Packers
3. New England Patriots
4. Houston Texans
5. Philadelphia Eagles
6. San Diego Chargers
7. New Orleans Saints
8. Washington Redskins
9. Chicago Bears
10.New York Jets
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Kickoff 2012
Before I give you my weekly picks, I just have to mention the KHL tragedy and the death of one of my all time favorite hockey players, Brad McCrimmon. When I first got into hockey back in 1984, it was an immediate love affair. I remember my father taking me to my first Flyers game at the Spectrum and I got to see Bobby Clarke score in OT. The Flyers were building a Stanley Cup championship team and their defensive anchors, Mark Howe and Brad McCrimmon. Still to this day, they were one of the best defensive pairings I've ever seen. And learning of the tragic death of McCrimmon, just got me reminiscing of those Flyer teams. My condolences to his family and friends and here's hoping every hockey fan of the 80's & 90's will take a minute and remember one of the best Defensemen of that generation.
Now onto my picks.
Green Bay -4.5 against the Saints
I know everyone is so high on the Packers this season, they won with all of the injuries. But last year, they flew under the radar and that won't happen this year. Every game, teams will be ready for them and want to make a showing. Week 1 is no different. The Saints dealt with this last season and lost in the playoffs to a sub 500 team. The Saints retooled and are ready to light up the league.
Saints
Cleveland -4.5 against Cincinnati
The Browns should come out firing. Colt McCoy and Peyton Hillis will lead the Browns to victory.
Browns
Houston -2.5 against Indianapolis
No Peyton Manning, on the road against an up and coming team where the head coach knows it's win or get fired. Andre Johnson is a beast and I expect a huge year from him. The much improved defense of the Texans will confuse Kerry Collins and stifle the running game. Whether Arien Foster plays or not, it's Matt Schaub's team and I think he will finish in the top 3 for league MVP. This is a statement game and I see the Texans making a huge statement.
Texans
Washington +3.5 against the NY Giants.
My Upset Special this week. Sorry Giant fans, Eli Manning can't do it alone and I am convinced Tom Coughlin will cost his team 3 games this year, this will be the first. I am not high on the Redskins at all, but I think they will run all over the Giants and leave them winded.
Redskins
I hope to pick 4-5 games a week and let's see how I do. Remember, I am usually 52% correct! Enjoy Kick off Weekend
Now onto my picks.
Green Bay -4.5 against the Saints
I know everyone is so high on the Packers this season, they won with all of the injuries. But last year, they flew under the radar and that won't happen this year. Every game, teams will be ready for them and want to make a showing. Week 1 is no different. The Saints dealt with this last season and lost in the playoffs to a sub 500 team. The Saints retooled and are ready to light up the league.
Saints
Cleveland -4.5 against Cincinnati
The Browns should come out firing. Colt McCoy and Peyton Hillis will lead the Browns to victory.
Browns
Houston -2.5 against Indianapolis
No Peyton Manning, on the road against an up and coming team where the head coach knows it's win or get fired. Andre Johnson is a beast and I expect a huge year from him. The much improved defense of the Texans will confuse Kerry Collins and stifle the running game. Whether Arien Foster plays or not, it's Matt Schaub's team and I think he will finish in the top 3 for league MVP. This is a statement game and I see the Texans making a huge statement.
Texans
Washington +3.5 against the NY Giants.
My Upset Special this week. Sorry Giant fans, Eli Manning can't do it alone and I am convinced Tom Coughlin will cost his team 3 games this year, this will be the first. I am not high on the Redskins at all, but I think they will run all over the Giants and leave them winded.
Redskins
I hope to pick 4-5 games a week and let's see how I do. Remember, I am usually 52% correct! Enjoy Kick off Weekend
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Are you ready for some Football?
We are about a day away from the 2011 NFL Season. And although most have forgotten about the lock out, I for one have not. I am still pissed about the Billionaires and Millionaires fighting over how to split over $9 Billion. Really?!? Really?!? Now that things are settled, there better be some good football and by good football, I mean The Eagles winning the Super Bowl.
Unlike every talking head in the sports world, I am not going to say this team will do this and that player will do that, because no one really knows. If they did, they will be able to see the future and would have warned us about the Economic Meltdown in our Country. Instead, I made my picks based on observation, trends and most importantly, common sense. And yes, I went week by week, game by game to predict each winner that I thought to come up with my predictions.
This is just a guess, so don't go to Vegas based on my picks and don't get mad if I am not right. I am right only 52% of the time. So here are my picks with a little synopsis on how I got them.
AFC West. This division is pretty weak. Last Season, San Diego started off slow and unlike seasons before, they couldn't get out of their early season slump. Mostly due to the Kansas City Chiefs ride of success. This season, things will seem more like 2009. The Chargers run away with the division. Phil Rivers will be league MVP, he will put up Brady-esque like numbers. 2nd year RB, Ryan Matthews will have a breakout season and San Diego Defense with a new Defensive Coordinator will put together a strong campaign. The rest of the division is muddled and unfortunately for the Chiefs, they will also come back to earth this year.
San Diego - 12-4
Oakland - 7-9
Kansas City - 5-11
Denver 3-11
AFC North will be a lot more competitive. No the Bengals will still suck, but they made some nice moves in the offseason/draft that will help them in the future. But the future is a year or two off. Cleveland will make a move to become a solid contender, although I think they are a year off as well. Baltimore is making a run now. With the acquisitions of Lee Evans, Andre Gourode and Steve McKinney, they got older and for their sake more experienced. The Steelers will have a bit of a weaker team this year, O Line is not as good and the Defense is a year older. But, Big Ben is entering the prime of his career and He has a lot of weapons around him.
Pittsburgh - 11-5
Baltimore - 10-6
Cleveland - 8-8
Cincinnati - 2-14
AFC South is confusing. Last season, I thought they would be the most competitive division. This season, I think they will be really bad. With the News Peyton Manning is likely to miss some time, the question remains, how much time and can they win without him? Also, if and when he comes back, what kind of shape will he be in? The latest injury might have been caused by him pushing a little too hard to rehab his neck. Tennessee is a mess, Chris Johnson is good, but how good? $30 Million guaranteed good? Does Matt Hasselbeck have some in the tank? Will Kenny Britt stay out of trouble? And someone explain to me the Jacksonville Jaguars? A week before opening weekend, you cut your starting Quarterback? What a jerk move. If you knew you were going to cut him, which I think they knew early on in the preseason, why didn't you cut him to give him a chance to find another job during the preseason? Seriously? I hope Jack Del Rio has his resume updated, because I don't see him being back next season. Finally, the Houston Texans. This has to be their year? Right? Isn't it the rule of probability?
Houston - 12-4
Indianapolis - 9-7
Jacksonville - 7-9
Tennessee - 5-11
AFC East will be the most fun division to watch. Thank you Rex Ryan. But I still think he is all sizzle and no substance. They are put together ton win regular season games, but what about the playoffs? Mark Sanchez is a cool customer, I am starting to like him, Santonio Holmes is a great receiver, I am starting to like him too. The Patriots seem to be the class of the AFC, at least with Bill Belichik, that's how its perceived. The Dolphins biggest problem was they needed a quarterback, especially because the coach and gm's job is relying on it. They didn't get one. The Bills are upcoming, but I have this strange feeling, by the time they get their, they will be the LA Bills.
New England - 12-4
NY Jets - 10-6
Miami - 8-8
Buffalo - 7-9
Now the NFC. The NFC west is improved from last season, but that's not saying much. The Cardinals have a QB, but I don't think he will be as good as they do, at least he hasn't showed me he can win. St Louis is much improved and they are ready to take the next step back to the playoffs. The 49ers are a mystery, they could run the table or get run. And finally, the Seahawks didn't do enough to improve their division winning team from last season.
Arizona - 9-7
St. Louis - 7-9
San Francisco - 6-10
Seattle - 4-12
The NFC North is very interesting this year. Everyone loves Green Bay, I don't. I think last season was a fluke. Everyone's darling this season is Detroit, they are still a year off. I really like Minnesota. Donovan McNabb has a lot to prove this season and he still has the talent to do so. AP in a contract year, I expect big things. If Percy Harvin stays healthy, All-Pro Season.
Minnesota - 12-4
Green Bay - 9-7
Detroit - 8-8
Chicago - 7-9
The NFC South has 3 legitimate contenders and a team a few players away from being a fourth. New Orleans is good, really good. Solid defense, great offense, good special teams. Losing Reggie Bush should hurt them, but gaining Mark Ingram and Darren Sprowls, will make Bush a thing of the past. Atlanta is making run now, Julio Jones is a stud and Tony Gonzalez's career is winding down. Atlanta was good last season, just not built to win in the playoffs, not sure if they are this year. Tampa Bay didn't do much in the off season. Josh Freeman will get better, but he might have a slight drop off this season. And that's how I sum up the Bucs, they will get better, just not this season. Teams will be prepared for them. Once upon a time, the Panthers were good. Good O-Line, Good Defense, Good receivers and backs. Than Jake Delhomme forgot who he played for and made a habit of throwing the ball to the other team. That killed the franchise from a psychological perspective and they still haven't gotten over it yet. Cam Newton will help, but he is a project. Teams will figure out real fast how to defend him. There will be a lot of pressure on the running back.
New Orleans - 10-6
Atlanta - 10-6
Tampa Bay - 8-8
Carolina - 3-13
Finally the NFC East. Yes the Dream Team's division. Only the talking heads can build a team up and knock them down 3 fold even before a regular season game. But Andy Reid knows talent, he knows how to use the system to his advantage. He may not be the best X's and O's guy, but he is good enough to win it all. Dallas is the polar opposite. Jerry Jones is their personal guy and how well has that worked out in the last decade? For all the talent they have, Jerry Jones doesn't know how to use them. I think the Jason Garrett experiment will end badly. It will ultimately cost Tony Romo and the Cowboys will have to rebuild. The Giants keep winning despite their coach. He won a Superbowl and that's still a mystery to me. Eli Manning is one of the best QBs in the league, but every year, they seem to take away from his offense, can he do it with what he has? The Redskins are going to be so bad, they might actually win a few games from teams taking them lightly. Rex Grossman is their QB, enough said. Mike Shanahan hasn't showed me anything since taking over the Redskins except he has an ego.
Philadelphia - 12-4
Dallas 10-6
NY Giants 8-8
Washington 4-12
Super Bowl Philadelphia over San Diego
League MVP - Phil Rivers
Coach of the Year - Gary Kubiak
Coaching Causalities - Tony Sparano week 5
I will be back tomorrow with my week 1 picks
Unlike every talking head in the sports world, I am not going to say this team will do this and that player will do that, because no one really knows. If they did, they will be able to see the future and would have warned us about the Economic Meltdown in our Country. Instead, I made my picks based on observation, trends and most importantly, common sense. And yes, I went week by week, game by game to predict each winner that I thought to come up with my predictions.
This is just a guess, so don't go to Vegas based on my picks and don't get mad if I am not right. I am right only 52% of the time. So here are my picks with a little synopsis on how I got them.
AFC West. This division is pretty weak. Last Season, San Diego started off slow and unlike seasons before, they couldn't get out of their early season slump. Mostly due to the Kansas City Chiefs ride of success. This season, things will seem more like 2009. The Chargers run away with the division. Phil Rivers will be league MVP, he will put up Brady-esque like numbers. 2nd year RB, Ryan Matthews will have a breakout season and San Diego Defense with a new Defensive Coordinator will put together a strong campaign. The rest of the division is muddled and unfortunately for the Chiefs, they will also come back to earth this year.
San Diego - 12-4
Oakland - 7-9
Kansas City - 5-11
Denver 3-11
AFC North will be a lot more competitive. No the Bengals will still suck, but they made some nice moves in the offseason/draft that will help them in the future. But the future is a year or two off. Cleveland will make a move to become a solid contender, although I think they are a year off as well. Baltimore is making a run now. With the acquisitions of Lee Evans, Andre Gourode and Steve McKinney, they got older and for their sake more experienced. The Steelers will have a bit of a weaker team this year, O Line is not as good and the Defense is a year older. But, Big Ben is entering the prime of his career and He has a lot of weapons around him.
Pittsburgh - 11-5
Baltimore - 10-6
Cleveland - 8-8
Cincinnati - 2-14
AFC South is confusing. Last season, I thought they would be the most competitive division. This season, I think they will be really bad. With the News Peyton Manning is likely to miss some time, the question remains, how much time and can they win without him? Also, if and when he comes back, what kind of shape will he be in? The latest injury might have been caused by him pushing a little too hard to rehab his neck. Tennessee is a mess, Chris Johnson is good, but how good? $30 Million guaranteed good? Does Matt Hasselbeck have some in the tank? Will Kenny Britt stay out of trouble? And someone explain to me the Jacksonville Jaguars? A week before opening weekend, you cut your starting Quarterback? What a jerk move. If you knew you were going to cut him, which I think they knew early on in the preseason, why didn't you cut him to give him a chance to find another job during the preseason? Seriously? I hope Jack Del Rio has his resume updated, because I don't see him being back next season. Finally, the Houston Texans. This has to be their year? Right? Isn't it the rule of probability?
Houston - 12-4
Indianapolis - 9-7
Jacksonville - 7-9
Tennessee - 5-11
AFC East will be the most fun division to watch. Thank you Rex Ryan. But I still think he is all sizzle and no substance. They are put together ton win regular season games, but what about the playoffs? Mark Sanchez is a cool customer, I am starting to like him, Santonio Holmes is a great receiver, I am starting to like him too. The Patriots seem to be the class of the AFC, at least with Bill Belichik, that's how its perceived. The Dolphins biggest problem was they needed a quarterback, especially because the coach and gm's job is relying on it. They didn't get one. The Bills are upcoming, but I have this strange feeling, by the time they get their, they will be the LA Bills.
New England - 12-4
NY Jets - 10-6
Miami - 8-8
Buffalo - 7-9
Now the NFC. The NFC west is improved from last season, but that's not saying much. The Cardinals have a QB, but I don't think he will be as good as they do, at least he hasn't showed me he can win. St Louis is much improved and they are ready to take the next step back to the playoffs. The 49ers are a mystery, they could run the table or get run. And finally, the Seahawks didn't do enough to improve their division winning team from last season.
Arizona - 9-7
St. Louis - 7-9
San Francisco - 6-10
Seattle - 4-12
The NFC North is very interesting this year. Everyone loves Green Bay, I don't. I think last season was a fluke. Everyone's darling this season is Detroit, they are still a year off. I really like Minnesota. Donovan McNabb has a lot to prove this season and he still has the talent to do so. AP in a contract year, I expect big things. If Percy Harvin stays healthy, All-Pro Season.
Minnesota - 12-4
Green Bay - 9-7
Detroit - 8-8
Chicago - 7-9
The NFC South has 3 legitimate contenders and a team a few players away from being a fourth. New Orleans is good, really good. Solid defense, great offense, good special teams. Losing Reggie Bush should hurt them, but gaining Mark Ingram and Darren Sprowls, will make Bush a thing of the past. Atlanta is making run now, Julio Jones is a stud and Tony Gonzalez's career is winding down. Atlanta was good last season, just not built to win in the playoffs, not sure if they are this year. Tampa Bay didn't do much in the off season. Josh Freeman will get better, but he might have a slight drop off this season. And that's how I sum up the Bucs, they will get better, just not this season. Teams will be prepared for them. Once upon a time, the Panthers were good. Good O-Line, Good Defense, Good receivers and backs. Than Jake Delhomme forgot who he played for and made a habit of throwing the ball to the other team. That killed the franchise from a psychological perspective and they still haven't gotten over it yet. Cam Newton will help, but he is a project. Teams will figure out real fast how to defend him. There will be a lot of pressure on the running back.
New Orleans - 10-6
Atlanta - 10-6
Tampa Bay - 8-8
Carolina - 3-13
Finally the NFC East. Yes the Dream Team's division. Only the talking heads can build a team up and knock them down 3 fold even before a regular season game. But Andy Reid knows talent, he knows how to use the system to his advantage. He may not be the best X's and O's guy, but he is good enough to win it all. Dallas is the polar opposite. Jerry Jones is their personal guy and how well has that worked out in the last decade? For all the talent they have, Jerry Jones doesn't know how to use them. I think the Jason Garrett experiment will end badly. It will ultimately cost Tony Romo and the Cowboys will have to rebuild. The Giants keep winning despite their coach. He won a Superbowl and that's still a mystery to me. Eli Manning is one of the best QBs in the league, but every year, they seem to take away from his offense, can he do it with what he has? The Redskins are going to be so bad, they might actually win a few games from teams taking them lightly. Rex Grossman is their QB, enough said. Mike Shanahan hasn't showed me anything since taking over the Redskins except he has an ego.
Philadelphia - 12-4
Dallas 10-6
NY Giants 8-8
Washington 4-12
Super Bowl Philadelphia over San Diego
League MVP - Phil Rivers
Coach of the Year - Gary Kubiak
Coaching Causalities - Tony Sparano week 5
I will be back tomorrow with my week 1 picks
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