BALTIMORE (-3.5) over Denver
I just think that Denver's undefeated streak has to stop at some point. The Ravens are at home and coming off a bye. I think it ends this week.
Cleveland (+13) over CHICAGO
Now I hate Cleveland. I predicted they'd win one game, and I think Chicago will win the game. I just see this one being close. Chicago hasn't shown me anything recently that tells me they can blow anyone out. I could definitely see Cleveland pulling off a cover here.
GREEN BAY (-3) over Minnesota
Obviously the game of the week. I sure hope the Green Bay fans come out and boo the hell out of traitor Favre. I predicted back when Minnesota won on their home field that the result would reverse in Lambeau. Who am I to change that now? Aaron Rodgers is going to hopefully stay off his back in this one and the pressure of coming home gets to Favre. Packers win.
INDIANAPOLIS (-13.5) over San Fransisco
I just think the Colts are playing too well to pick against them at this point. I think they can blow out any team that's not really good. The 49ers are not really good, not by any stretch of the imagination.
Miami (+3.5) over NEW YORK JETS
Miami won last time, the Jets haven't shown me that they have improved, and Miami hasn't shown me that they have gotten worse. I think the result will be the same here. Miami just matches up really well with the Jets.
DETROIT (-3.5) over St. Louis
Wow, a game that Detroit is favored in. and I am taking them with confidence. The Rams are an absolute mess, even worse than the Lions. Stafford and Calvin Johnson are coming back. They are at home. I have to take Detroit. Ladies and gentlemen, your 2009 St. Louis Rams!
SAN DIEGO (-16.5) over Oakland
This is the biggest line we have seen this year. It comes as a reaction to all the favorites winning in blow outs last week. I don't care what the line is, I still like San Diego. The Chargers seem to be settling in and the Raiders are checking out. San Diego should massacre them.
ARIZONA (-10) over Carolina
Each week, Arizona looks more and more like the team that made it to the Super Bowl last year. This week they get a miserable Carolina team at home. Shouldn't be close.
PHILADELPHIA (+1) over New York Giants
These two are both going backward, but I like the Eagles better than the Giants. Hopefully the crowd gets into it and they can stop their backpeddling and send the Giants back to 5-3, only two games above .500. They'd be lucky to finish two games above .500 on the season.
Atlanta (+11) over NEW ORLEANS
I love the Saints and they are the clear best team in the league, but I still have quite a bit of faith in this Falcons team. I think they should make this one a close game.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
DALLAS (-9.5) over Seattle
This game may not look like a big one on paper, but in my opinion, its huge for Dallas. They can't have a hangover game here. They had a huge game last week and they need to do the same thing again. Seattle is a bad team, blow them out. If not, you go back to being nothing more than a mediocre, middle of the road, going nowhere team, Dallas.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Jacksonville (+3) over TENNESSEE
How is Tennessee favored in this game? Jacksonville blew them out last time. They haven't gotten any better. They put that much faith in Vince Young. Sure, I'd love to see him come in there and lead the team to victory, but I can't see it happening, especially in his first game back. Jacksonville takes this one over the pathetic Titans. Baffled by that line.
Lock Of The Week
Houston (-3.5) over BUFFALO
Houston has too much offense for Buffalo. I think this could get ugly and the line is just a reaction to Buffalo being at home and winning a couple of games in a row.
Last Week: 10-2-1
Overall: 58-44-1
Lock Picks: 13-8
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Film Review: The Boondock Saints 2: All Saints Day
Ten years ago, unknown director Troy Duffy made a low budget film based around two brothers who decide to take it upon themselves to fight against the Boston crime syndicate. The film only ever made it into five theaters and grossed just 30 thousand dollars domestically. It was suppressed mainly due to the fact that it was set to be released around the exact same time as the Columbine shootings and many thought it would be insensitive to release such a violent film at that time.
So there the film sat, smoldering away in no man’s land for several years. However, the film was not dead in the water. Like a Phoenix from the ashes, the film found another life to rise up and overcome its initial shortcomings: the wonderful world of a cult DVD following. The Boondock Saints were indeed coming.
Once the film-going audience was actually able to get their hands on this film, the word started to spread like wildfire. The fans were the true essence of everything that makes a cult movie a cult movie. Anyone who loved it needed to tell everyone they knew how great it was. It may have taken 5 years before this even started, but once it did, there was really no stopping it.
The word finally got to me about three years ago, my sophomore year of college. I had heard the film mentioned and knew I would get to it eventually. However one of my very good friends sat me down and said you need to watch this NOW. It was his favorite movie. So we popped in the DVD and began to watch the film. I can tell you right now, I was never hooked so fast by a movie. As the story played out, I found myself never wanting it to end. The characters were so gripping, so funny, so absolutely likeable. It has found a place firmly in my top five films of all time.
When I heard that they were actually making a sequel, I was cautiously optimistic. Of course I wanted to se more of the Saints, but I also didn’t want them to butcher the greatness of the first. When I heard that everyone involved with the first (minus Willem Dafoe) was returning for the sequel, and writer/director Troy Duffy was at the helm as well, the excitement started to flow. I knew the film would be opening limited, so I just hoped that it would play somewhere within driving distance. It was, so me, that very friend that first introduced me to the Saints, and one other friend took the trip down to Hartford to catch an opening night showing of All Saints Day.
The plot of the new film takes place eight years after the first, and the Saints had been hiding away in Ireland, herding sheep. When they are informed that a Boston priest has been murdered in the style that they used to use (two shots to the back of the head, pennies on the eyes) they come out of hiding to take revenge on anyone who was involved.
If you are worried about the lack of everyone’s favorite loveable idiot sidekick, Rocco, who died in the first film, don’t worry. He does appear in the film in a couple of scenes including a dream sequence, but they also found a very funny and adequate replacement in the character of Romeo, who is basically the same character, only Mexican.
The film stayed true to everything that made the first one so great. Absolutely hilarious dialogue, quick-witted one-liners, and brilliantly executed violence. The lack of well known actors is another thing that I believe makes the Saints stand above any other movie of its type. Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus completely own their characters. They are Connor and Murphy MacManus. This makes it much easier to just lose yourself in the world the film creates and forget that you are watching actors playing a role. The film, once again, leaves you rooting for the Saints every step of the way.
Willem Dafoe is replaced nicely by Julie Benz, who plays his protégé Special Agent Eunice Bloom. She isn’t quite as enjoyable to watch as Dafoe was in the first film, but she holds her weight and doesn’t detract from the film in any way. So for those of you worried that Dafoe’s absence would really hurt the film, rest assured, he is missed, but not enough that you won’t still love the finished product.
The film basically plays as a carbon copy of the first in terms of style, which leads me to say that it wasn’t quite as good as the first. Of course, I never really expected it would be. Like I mentioned earlier, The Boondock Saints is a top five all time movie for me, so this had some big shoes to fill. That said, I wasn’t even the slightest bit disappointed. The plot played out nicely, including a couple of cool twists towards the end. If you loved the first one, I bet you will like this as well. It is absolutely worth checking out for all fans of the franchise, so if you are worried about them ruining it, I can assure you they did not. It was easily one of the best films I have seen this year. If you still haven’t heard of The Boondock Saints, I strongly urge you to watch the first film. It may be the best movie-based decision you make this year. Or you will hate it and think its an over-hyped piece of crap. Either way, you will be able to decide where you stand on seeing this brilliant sequel, or giving it a strong “No thank you.”
For me, it was absolutely worth that trip to Hartford. I give The Boondock Saints 2: All Saints Day a 10/10.
So there the film sat, smoldering away in no man’s land for several years. However, the film was not dead in the water. Like a Phoenix from the ashes, the film found another life to rise up and overcome its initial shortcomings: the wonderful world of a cult DVD following. The Boondock Saints were indeed coming.
Once the film-going audience was actually able to get their hands on this film, the word started to spread like wildfire. The fans were the true essence of everything that makes a cult movie a cult movie. Anyone who loved it needed to tell everyone they knew how great it was. It may have taken 5 years before this even started, but once it did, there was really no stopping it.
The word finally got to me about three years ago, my sophomore year of college. I had heard the film mentioned and knew I would get to it eventually. However one of my very good friends sat me down and said you need to watch this NOW. It was his favorite movie. So we popped in the DVD and began to watch the film. I can tell you right now, I was never hooked so fast by a movie. As the story played out, I found myself never wanting it to end. The characters were so gripping, so funny, so absolutely likeable. It has found a place firmly in my top five films of all time.
When I heard that they were actually making a sequel, I was cautiously optimistic. Of course I wanted to se more of the Saints, but I also didn’t want them to butcher the greatness of the first. When I heard that everyone involved with the first (minus Willem Dafoe) was returning for the sequel, and writer/director Troy Duffy was at the helm as well, the excitement started to flow. I knew the film would be opening limited, so I just hoped that it would play somewhere within driving distance. It was, so me, that very friend that first introduced me to the Saints, and one other friend took the trip down to Hartford to catch an opening night showing of All Saints Day.
The plot of the new film takes place eight years after the first, and the Saints had been hiding away in Ireland, herding sheep. When they are informed that a Boston priest has been murdered in the style that they used to use (two shots to the back of the head, pennies on the eyes) they come out of hiding to take revenge on anyone who was involved.
If you are worried about the lack of everyone’s favorite loveable idiot sidekick, Rocco, who died in the first film, don’t worry. He does appear in the film in a couple of scenes including a dream sequence, but they also found a very funny and adequate replacement in the character of Romeo, who is basically the same character, only Mexican.
The film stayed true to everything that made the first one so great. Absolutely hilarious dialogue, quick-witted one-liners, and brilliantly executed violence. The lack of well known actors is another thing that I believe makes the Saints stand above any other movie of its type. Sean Patrick Flanery and Norman Reedus completely own their characters. They are Connor and Murphy MacManus. This makes it much easier to just lose yourself in the world the film creates and forget that you are watching actors playing a role. The film, once again, leaves you rooting for the Saints every step of the way.
Willem Dafoe is replaced nicely by Julie Benz, who plays his protégé Special Agent Eunice Bloom. She isn’t quite as enjoyable to watch as Dafoe was in the first film, but she holds her weight and doesn’t detract from the film in any way. So for those of you worried that Dafoe’s absence would really hurt the film, rest assured, he is missed, but not enough that you won’t still love the finished product.
The film basically plays as a carbon copy of the first in terms of style, which leads me to say that it wasn’t quite as good as the first. Of course, I never really expected it would be. Like I mentioned earlier, The Boondock Saints is a top five all time movie for me, so this had some big shoes to fill. That said, I wasn’t even the slightest bit disappointed. The plot played out nicely, including a couple of cool twists towards the end. If you loved the first one, I bet you will like this as well. It is absolutely worth checking out for all fans of the franchise, so if you are worried about them ruining it, I can assure you they did not. It was easily one of the best films I have seen this year. If you still haven’t heard of The Boondock Saints, I strongly urge you to watch the first film. It may be the best movie-based decision you make this year. Or you will hate it and think its an over-hyped piece of crap. Either way, you will be able to decide where you stand on seeing this brilliant sequel, or giving it a strong “No thank you.”
For me, it was absolutely worth that trip to Hartford. I give The Boondock Saints 2: All Saints Day a 10/10.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The NBA is upon us, here's a preview!
Who is going to be crowned king of the courts for the 09-10 season? Well, for me, it comes down to 5 teams. Three of them I'd consider the favorites, and two teams I'd like to say are wild card teams.
My favorites to win it all have to begin with the defending champion Lakers. They are a different team this year from last, and I don't know if that's necessarily a good thing. The Ron Artest situation may work out, but I don't really think that it will. However, any team with Kobe Bryant at its core will be a title contender. I see a breakout year coming for Andrew Bynum. Like a "I'm going to be a top 3 center before the year is out" type season. If he stays healthy of course. That is going to be the key to their season. The emergence of Bynum and if they can stay healthy. I think they have the best record out West.
Speaking of a team that needs to stay healthy, we get to my second of three favorites, and my favorite to make it to the finals out of the East, the Boston Celtics. Rasheed Wallace is going to be a great addition for this team. He doesn't need to be the guy in Boston. He takes a back seat to the big three and Rajon Rondo. This is key for Sheed. He excels in this role. I think he is going to be the piece they were missing last season. Of course, this team relies on several players who are getting up their in age. Kevin Garnett is coming off knee surgery, and if he goes down again, well there goes the season. however, assuming the team stays healthy, and Rondo continues to make his ascent amongst the leagues great point guards, this team will be unstoppable in the Eastern Conference.
But that said, my pick to win it all this season is the San Antonio Spurs. They have the best coach, a core of players that have won it before, along with a couple of new additions that will put this team over the top one more time. I think this is the last hurrah for the Tim Duncan/Manu Ginobli/ Tony Parker connection. The addition of Richard Jefferson, Antonio McDyess and Dejuan Blair to the rotation make this team as a whole better than the Lakers. I see them knocking off the Celtics in the finals. That is of course if one of my wild card teams doesn't knock out either.
The first of these wild card teams is Orlando. They made the finals last year after knocking off Lebron and the Cavs. This year the have replaced Hedo Turkoglu with Vince Carter and he is the ultimate wild card. He could either play like he gives a crap and take this team back to the finals, or he can be Vince Carter. It is yet to be seen. I think this is the only team that gives the Celtics a run, and if the Celtics fall to injury, look for Orlando to be the last man standing in the east once again.
My other wild card team, and the 5th team I think can make a run at the title this season is the Portland Trail Blazers. This team is loaded with young talent just itching to break out. Brandon Roy, Lemarcus Aldridge, and the reason for them being a wild card, the unpredictable Greg Oden. Will he show why he was a number one overall pick? Or will his body succumb to injuries one again? If he can stay on the court, I do think he is a great talent. And if all of these players come into their own, I can see them making a deep playoff run, and possibly a surprise run to a championship.
So really those are the 5 teams I see that actually have a chance at this thing. If you are surprised that a team in Cleveland is left off the list, I can tell you that I don't think the Shaquille O'Neill thing is going to work out their, and beyond that, they are generally the same team they were last year that couldn't get the job done. Lebron is going to end up doing it all by himself again, becoming exceedingly frustrated, and bolting out of their during the off-season.
Here's how I see it breaking down with the rest of the playoff teams:
Western Conference
1. Los Angeles Lakers
2. San Antonio Spurs
3. Portland Trail Blazers
4. Dallas Mavericks
5. Phoenix Suns
6. Denver Nuggets
7. New Orleans Hornets
8. Utah Jazz
Eastern Conference
1. Boston Celtics
2. Orlando Magic
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
4. Totonto Raptors
5. Chicago Bulls
6. Atlanta Hawks
7. Miami Heat
8. New Jersey Nets
Western Conference Playoffs First Round
1. Lakers over 8. Jazz
2. Spurs over 7. Hornets
3. Trail Blazers over 6. Nuggets
4. Mavericks over 5. Suns
Eastern Conference Playoffs First Round
1. Celtics over 8. Nets
2. Magic over 7. Heat
6. Hawks over 3. Cavaliers
4. Raptors over 5. Bulls
Western Conference Semi-final
1. Lakers over Mavericks
2. Spurs over Trail Blazers
Eastern Conference Semi-final
1. Celtics over 4. Raptors
2. Magic over 6. Hawks
Western Conference Final
2. Spurs over 1. Lakers
Eastern Conference Final
1. Celtics over 2. Magic
NBA Finals
Spurs over Celtics
There you have it. As you can see, I'm pretty high on the Raptors, Bulls, Hawks, Mavericks and Suns. And I think the Nets make the playoffs in the East. I like their team a little bit
Here's some fantasy players I love this season. I know its too late for your draft, but if you can target these guys in trades, I'd advise it. Hopefully I'm skipping the obvious names here:
Jose Calderon PG- TOR
Devin Harris PG-NJN
Brook Lopez PF/C-NJN
David West PF- NO
Lemarcus Aldridge PF/C-POR
David Lee- PF/C- NYK
Derrick Rose PG-CHI
Andrew Bynum PF/C- LAL
AL Horford PF/C- ATL
Russell Westbrook PG- OKC
Eric Gordon SG-LAC
Jeff Green F/G- OKC
Joakim Noah- PF/C-CHI
Antonio McDyess C-SAS
Aaron Brooks PG- HOU
Louis Scola PF/C- HOU
That'll do it. I'll start doing NBA Power Rankings every two weeks, starting after the second week of NBA action. NFL picks will be up on Saturday, until then, take care.
My favorites to win it all have to begin with the defending champion Lakers. They are a different team this year from last, and I don't know if that's necessarily a good thing. The Ron Artest situation may work out, but I don't really think that it will. However, any team with Kobe Bryant at its core will be a title contender. I see a breakout year coming for Andrew Bynum. Like a "I'm going to be a top 3 center before the year is out" type season. If he stays healthy of course. That is going to be the key to their season. The emergence of Bynum and if they can stay healthy. I think they have the best record out West.
Speaking of a team that needs to stay healthy, we get to my second of three favorites, and my favorite to make it to the finals out of the East, the Boston Celtics. Rasheed Wallace is going to be a great addition for this team. He doesn't need to be the guy in Boston. He takes a back seat to the big three and Rajon Rondo. This is key for Sheed. He excels in this role. I think he is going to be the piece they were missing last season. Of course, this team relies on several players who are getting up their in age. Kevin Garnett is coming off knee surgery, and if he goes down again, well there goes the season. however, assuming the team stays healthy, and Rondo continues to make his ascent amongst the leagues great point guards, this team will be unstoppable in the Eastern Conference.
But that said, my pick to win it all this season is the San Antonio Spurs. They have the best coach, a core of players that have won it before, along with a couple of new additions that will put this team over the top one more time. I think this is the last hurrah for the Tim Duncan/Manu Ginobli/ Tony Parker connection. The addition of Richard Jefferson, Antonio McDyess and Dejuan Blair to the rotation make this team as a whole better than the Lakers. I see them knocking off the Celtics in the finals. That is of course if one of my wild card teams doesn't knock out either.
The first of these wild card teams is Orlando. They made the finals last year after knocking off Lebron and the Cavs. This year the have replaced Hedo Turkoglu with Vince Carter and he is the ultimate wild card. He could either play like he gives a crap and take this team back to the finals, or he can be Vince Carter. It is yet to be seen. I think this is the only team that gives the Celtics a run, and if the Celtics fall to injury, look for Orlando to be the last man standing in the east once again.
My other wild card team, and the 5th team I think can make a run at the title this season is the Portland Trail Blazers. This team is loaded with young talent just itching to break out. Brandon Roy, Lemarcus Aldridge, and the reason for them being a wild card, the unpredictable Greg Oden. Will he show why he was a number one overall pick? Or will his body succumb to injuries one again? If he can stay on the court, I do think he is a great talent. And if all of these players come into their own, I can see them making a deep playoff run, and possibly a surprise run to a championship.
So really those are the 5 teams I see that actually have a chance at this thing. If you are surprised that a team in Cleveland is left off the list, I can tell you that I don't think the Shaquille O'Neill thing is going to work out their, and beyond that, they are generally the same team they were last year that couldn't get the job done. Lebron is going to end up doing it all by himself again, becoming exceedingly frustrated, and bolting out of their during the off-season.
Here's how I see it breaking down with the rest of the playoff teams:
Western Conference
1. Los Angeles Lakers
2. San Antonio Spurs
3. Portland Trail Blazers
4. Dallas Mavericks
5. Phoenix Suns
6. Denver Nuggets
7. New Orleans Hornets
8. Utah Jazz
Eastern Conference
1. Boston Celtics
2. Orlando Magic
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
4. Totonto Raptors
5. Chicago Bulls
6. Atlanta Hawks
7. Miami Heat
8. New Jersey Nets
Western Conference Playoffs First Round
1. Lakers over 8. Jazz
2. Spurs over 7. Hornets
3. Trail Blazers over 6. Nuggets
4. Mavericks over 5. Suns
Eastern Conference Playoffs First Round
1. Celtics over 8. Nets
2. Magic over 7. Heat
6. Hawks over 3. Cavaliers
4. Raptors over 5. Bulls
Western Conference Semi-final
1. Lakers over Mavericks
2. Spurs over Trail Blazers
Eastern Conference Semi-final
1. Celtics over 4. Raptors
2. Magic over 6. Hawks
Western Conference Final
2. Spurs over 1. Lakers
Eastern Conference Final
1. Celtics over 2. Magic
NBA Finals
Spurs over Celtics
There you have it. As you can see, I'm pretty high on the Raptors, Bulls, Hawks, Mavericks and Suns. And I think the Nets make the playoffs in the East. I like their team a little bit
Here's some fantasy players I love this season. I know its too late for your draft, but if you can target these guys in trades, I'd advise it. Hopefully I'm skipping the obvious names here:
Jose Calderon PG- TOR
Devin Harris PG-NJN
Brook Lopez PF/C-NJN
David West PF- NO
Lemarcus Aldridge PF/C-POR
David Lee- PF/C- NYK
Derrick Rose PG-CHI
Andrew Bynum PF/C- LAL
AL Horford PF/C- ATL
Russell Westbrook PG- OKC
Eric Gordon SG-LAC
Jeff Green F/G- OKC
Joakim Noah- PF/C-CHI
Antonio McDyess C-SAS
Aaron Brooks PG- HOU
Louis Scola PF/C- HOU
That'll do it. I'll start doing NBA Power Rankings every two weeks, starting after the second week of NBA action. NFL picks will be up on Saturday, until then, take care.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Power Rankings- Week 8
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Denver Broncos
4. New England Patriots
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
6. Green Bay Packers
7. Baltimore Ravens
8. Arizona Cardinals
9. Cincinnati Bengals
10. Atlanta Falcons
11. Minnesota Vikings
12. San Diego Chargers
13. Dallas Cowboys
14. New York Jets
15. Philadelphia Eagles
16. Houston Texans
17. New York Giants
18. Miami Dolphins
19. San Francisco 49ers
20. Chicago Bears
21. Buffalo Bills
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Seattle Seahawks
24. Detroit Lions
25. Carolina Panthers
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Tennessee Titans
28. Oakland Raiders
29. Washington Redskins
30. Cleveland Browns
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Denver Broncos
4. New England Patriots
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
6. Green Bay Packers
7. Baltimore Ravens
8. Arizona Cardinals
9. Cincinnati Bengals
10. Atlanta Falcons
11. Minnesota Vikings
12. San Diego Chargers
13. Dallas Cowboys
14. New York Jets
15. Philadelphia Eagles
16. Houston Texans
17. New York Giants
18. Miami Dolphins
19. San Francisco 49ers
20. Chicago Bears
21. Buffalo Bills
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Seattle Seahawks
24. Detroit Lions
25. Carolina Panthers
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Tennessee Titans
28. Oakland Raiders
29. Washington Redskins
30. Cleveland Browns
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
Blowout City
That was the story of week 7. As the gap between the best and worse teams in the NFL widens, we are bound to get a couple of weeks like this. I will not be doing a full recap this week, because so many of the games didn't warrant being written about. Here's a few things that I actually did learn from week 7.
- Alex Smith will be the 49ers quarterback for at least the rest of this season. The Texans shouldn't have given up such a big lead. Unacceptable. At least they escaped with a win.
- The Vikings gave away a game to the Steelers defense. I do think the Steelers are the better team in this one, and it was good to see them hand the Vikings their first loss. Expect their second to come in Lambeau this week. Brad Childress made a few awful decisions in this one., like not going for it on 4th and goal at the one, and not giving the ball to Adrian Peterson a lot more than he did. No excuse for that.
- Ryan Fitzpatrick is a better quarterback than Trent Edwards. That isn't saying much, but the Bills soundly beat the Panthers. A lot of people said the Panthers were back after last week. The Bills proved that Carolina just stinks.
- Bengals showed up to blow out the Bears. I think the Bears are done this year, and the Bengals are proving to be a damn good team. I wouldn't want to see Cincinnati on my schedule in the coming weeks. Carson Palmer is finally all the way back.
- The Cowboys proved more to me in this game than they have all season. With the Romo-Austin hook up in full gear, this team is a lot better than they have played previous. They certainly showed me more than anything the Giants have done this year.
- The Saints are really, really good. They can prove that even when they are playing poorly, you can't knock them out. They adjusted their game plan on defense and just used their historically awesome offense to pulverize the Dolphins, 43-10 after the Dolphins jumped out to an early 24-3 lead. They are still the best team in the league.
- The Giants continue their fall back to mediocrity, losing to a solid Cardinals team. 9-7, you heard it here FIRST!
- The Eagles should have beaten the Redskins by more than they did. I no longer think they will make a dep playoff run. They seem to lack heart.
Fantasy pick ups- Shonn Greene, Alex Smith, Vernon Davis (if available), Fred Davis (Cooley done for the year), Beanie Wells, Hakeem Nicks, Sam Aiken
That will do it. New Power Rankings up next!
- Alex Smith will be the 49ers quarterback for at least the rest of this season. The Texans shouldn't have given up such a big lead. Unacceptable. At least they escaped with a win.
- The Vikings gave away a game to the Steelers defense. I do think the Steelers are the better team in this one, and it was good to see them hand the Vikings their first loss. Expect their second to come in Lambeau this week. Brad Childress made a few awful decisions in this one., like not going for it on 4th and goal at the one, and not giving the ball to Adrian Peterson a lot more than he did. No excuse for that.
- Ryan Fitzpatrick is a better quarterback than Trent Edwards. That isn't saying much, but the Bills soundly beat the Panthers. A lot of people said the Panthers were back after last week. The Bills proved that Carolina just stinks.
- Bengals showed up to blow out the Bears. I think the Bears are done this year, and the Bengals are proving to be a damn good team. I wouldn't want to see Cincinnati on my schedule in the coming weeks. Carson Palmer is finally all the way back.
- The Cowboys proved more to me in this game than they have all season. With the Romo-Austin hook up in full gear, this team is a lot better than they have played previous. They certainly showed me more than anything the Giants have done this year.
- The Saints are really, really good. They can prove that even when they are playing poorly, you can't knock them out. They adjusted their game plan on defense and just used their historically awesome offense to pulverize the Dolphins, 43-10 after the Dolphins jumped out to an early 24-3 lead. They are still the best team in the league.
- The Giants continue their fall back to mediocrity, losing to a solid Cardinals team. 9-7, you heard it here FIRST!
- The Eagles should have beaten the Redskins by more than they did. I no longer think they will make a dep playoff run. They seem to lack heart.
Fantasy pick ups- Shonn Greene, Alex Smith, Vernon Davis (if available), Fred Davis (Cooley done for the year), Beanie Wells, Hakeem Nicks, Sam Aiken
That will do it. New Power Rankings up next!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Week 7 Picks
San Diego (-4.5) over KANSAS CITY
PITTSBURG (-4.5) over Minnesota
New England (-14.5) over TAMPA BAY
HOUSTON (-3) over San Fransisco
New York Jets (-6) over OAKLAND
Buffalo (+6) over CAROLINA
Chicago (+1) over CINCINNATI
New Orleans (-6) over MIAMI
Atlanta (+4) over DALLAS
Arizona (+7) over NEW YORK GIANTS
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-14) over ST. LOUIS
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Green Bay (-9) over CLEVELAND
Lock of the Week
Philadelphia (-7) over WASHINGTON
Last Week: 8-6
Overall: 48-42
Lock Picks: 10-8
PITTSBURG (-4.5) over Minnesota
New England (-14.5) over TAMPA BAY
HOUSTON (-3) over San Fransisco
New York Jets (-6) over OAKLAND
Buffalo (+6) over CAROLINA
Chicago (+1) over CINCINNATI
New Orleans (-6) over MIAMI
Atlanta (+4) over DALLAS
Arizona (+7) over NEW YORK GIANTS
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-14) over ST. LOUIS
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Green Bay (-9) over CLEVELAND
Lock of the Week
Philadelphia (-7) over WASHINGTON
Last Week: 8-6
Overall: 48-42
Lock Picks: 10-8
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Week 7 Power Rankings
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Denver Broncos
4. Atlanta Falcons
5. New England Patriots
6. Minnesota Vikings
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Baltimore Ravens
9. Green Bay Packers
10. Philadelphia Eagles
11. Arizona Cardinals
12. Houston Texans
13. Cincinnati Bengals
14. Chicago Bears
15. New York Giants
16. Miami Dolphins
17. San Diego Chargers
18. New York Jets
19. Dallas Cowboys
20. San Francisco 49ers
21. Seattle Seahawks
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Carolina Panthers
24. Kansas City Chiefs
25. Buffalo Bills
26. Detroit Lions
27. Tennessee Titans
28. Oakland Raiders
29. Washington Redskins
30. Cleveland Browns
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Denver Broncos
4. Atlanta Falcons
5. New England Patriots
6. Minnesota Vikings
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Baltimore Ravens
9. Green Bay Packers
10. Philadelphia Eagles
11. Arizona Cardinals
12. Houston Texans
13. Cincinnati Bengals
14. Chicago Bears
15. New York Giants
16. Miami Dolphins
17. San Diego Chargers
18. New York Jets
19. Dallas Cowboys
20. San Francisco 49ers
21. Seattle Seahawks
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Carolina Panthers
24. Kansas City Chiefs
25. Buffalo Bills
26. Detroit Lions
27. Tennessee Titans
28. Oakland Raiders
29. Washington Redskins
30. Cleveland Browns
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
In this case, I LOVE to say I told you so
Ladies and gentlemen, the moment finally came. After 5 weeks of playing nothing but cupcakes, we saw just how dangerous the New York Giants are. The answer: not very. Every sports analyst out there seems to be shocked and appalled by the Giants lack of defense against the Saints and the fact that this game was just a complete blow out dismantling of everything Giants. Not this guy. I have been saying it all year, this Giants team has done nothing to show me that they are anything special. They have played 5 teams that rank between below average to god-awful. Now they came up against the team that I have said is the best team in football since I initially did my power rankings in week 2, and got stomped into the ground. The game wasn't even as close as the 3 touchdown lead would indicate. Drew Brees threw for 4 touchdowns, and they ran for an additional 3. How good is that Giants defense? I say not very. I can't see them winning more than nine games this season. Maybe ten if they get lucky, which they have proven they can, as with the game they stole against the overwhelmingly mediocre Cowboys.
Fantasy Impact: Pierre Thomas was more efficient running the ball, but he did not get the goal line carries. Who knows how that shakes out the rest of the way but it has to make you believe that Mike Bell is still rosterable in deeper leagues. Lance Moore had his best game of the season, but you can't really rely on any Saints receiver other than Colston. Brees likes to get the ball to the open man, and that could be anyone on any play. Hakeem Nicks had a big game for the Giants, but most came on one pass. I wouldn't rush out to add the rookie.
And now, on to the rest of the NFL:
Vikings/Ravens: This was a wonderful football game. The Vikings looked like they clearly had the game in hand, and then the Ravens came charging back. I loved it. Then CBS had to pull it off in the final minutes and I didn't get to see Steven Hauschka miss the field goal. Bottom line, yes, the Vikings are better than I initially thought and the Brett Favre experiment is working, for now. I still don't think he will hold up over the course of a 16 game season, but at this time, they have played outstanding. The Ravens defense clearly misses Rex Ryan. They are a shaddow of their former selves. However, the combination of Joe Flacco and Ray Rice are scoring points each and every week. Ray Rice is a star folks. He was my favorite target this year in fantasy and I have him on every team. I wanted him at any cost, and he will be a first round pick next year. Both of these teams are about even, home field may have swung it. Or maybe it was just Hauschka's foot.
Fantasy Impact: Shame on me for not mentioning Sydney Rice yet this season. He just had his breakout game. If he's still available in your league, I don't know why, but add him. He is Favre's favorite target. He is a top 30 receiver right now. This game was all about the Rice's, as I mentioned with Ray getting 77 on the ground on 10 carries (Willis McGahee put the nails in his own coffin with 3 yards on 7 carries) and 117 yards on 10 catches out of 11 targets. He also scored 2 touchdowns, so owners don't even need to worry about him not getting into the end zone this year. I honestly see him challenging Adrian Peterson for top fantasy honors this season. Peterson had a terrific day himself, going for 143 yards, but no touchdowns. He had an ankle injury at the end of the game, but it does not appear serious.
Steelers/Browns: The Browns stink, the Steelers are still pretty good. Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn are both awful, and the Browns may not win again. That's all their is to really say about this one. On to the fantasy news.
Fantasy Impact: Hines Ward is quietly having an exceptional season. 8 catches for 159 in this one. If you drafted him I commend you. I personally thought he might be over the hill, but he has proven the doubters wrong again and again. Willie Parker was back, but Mendenhall got 17 carries to Parker's 7. Look for this ratio to continue. Mendenhall is the back you want, and if you haven't dropped Parker yet, you can go ahead.
Panthers/Buccanneers: This game was another one of those pointless games between two awful teams. Its not worth spending any time on.
Fantasy Impact: Steve Smith (CAR) has said that he is no longer an asset to Carolina. Umm, not exactly a ringing endorsement to his fantasy prospects. His stock is plummeting, so if anyone out there still believes, you'll be able to get him cheap. I'm not one who does. Deangelo Williams had the day you drafted him for, finally. He'll be fine.
Chiefs/Redskins: The Chiefs are bad. The Redskins are worse. Moving on.
Fantasy impact: Larry Johnson had a serviceable game, but I still don't think he's rosterable. Clinton Portis averaged 7.3 yards per carry, but that isn't saying much against the Chiefs run defense. Jason Campbell was pulled, but he remains the starter, so if you are relying on him as a back up in 2 QB leagues, you can still keep him. That's about the only reason you'd want him on your team though.
Rams/Jaguars: I picked the Jaguars in my survival pools this week and they game me quite a scare. However, they pulled it out. Poor Rams. This is 16 in a row for them, and they have performed worse than the Lions over that time frame. Can they win a game? We'll see.
Fantasy Impact: MJD is showing us all that he can in fact carry a full load. 33 carries, 133 yards, 3 touchdowns. Outstanding work, and if you faced him, I'm willing to bet the outcome wasn't favorable. Mike Sims-Walker game back from his one game suspension and once again went over the century mark in yards. Bold prediction: He is a top 10 wide receiver by the end of the year in per game fantasy points. Torry Holt also had a nice game, catching 5 for 101 yards. All of the scores went to Jones-Drew though. Stephen Jackson has to get into the end zone sooner or later right? At least he is putting up yards and actually staying on the field. That should be all his owners really want at this point.
Texans/Bengals: Is it just me, or are these the two hardest teams to judge in the whole NFL? I can't figure them out from week to week. They either come out very strong or very lackluster. I think if they played 10 times, they would go 5-5. Both teams could be Super Bowl contenders on a good day, or in the bottom third of the league on a bad one. These teams are going to be very interesting to watch the rest of the way.
Fantasy Impact: Matt Schaub is making his bid to be a top 5 fantasy QB this season. He qualifies right now, and a few more games like this could solidify that campaign. Andre Johnson broke the Bengals string of shutting down number 1 receivers, going for 135 on 8 carries. Steve Slaton was much more effective through the air than on the ground, but you loved his day regardless of how he got it done. Owen Daniels scored two touchdowns, much to my delight (loved him this year) and is making a case to break into the Gates/Gonzalez/Witten group of tight ends on draft day. Maybe he'll even surpass them? For Cincinnati, Cedric Benson was finally stopped, gaining only 44 yards on 16 carries. I doubt anyone thought that would come from Houston. The sell high window may be closing (I will never advise buying Benson). If Andre Caldwell is available in your league and you need a wide receiver, he is a good option. Its pretty obvious he has become the number 2 option for Carson Palmer, and Chris Henry is nowhere in sight, confirming my pre-draft thinking that he'd be a bust.
Packers/Lions: The Packers come off the bye with a beatdown of the Lions. They dominated in every way, especially defensively, only giving up 149 total yards. I'm not giving up on the Packers for this season. I still think they are serious Super Bowl contenders.
Fantasy Impact: Calvin Johnson didn't play and his owners can only hope his injury isn't very serious. They, and the Lions for that matter, need Megatron to come back and perform. They had no offense with him and Stafford out of the lineup. Their bye is coming at the best time for them.
Cardinals/Seahawks: Ok, so I was wrong about this one. The Cardinals definitely still have something left in the tank and Seattle is not the bounce back team. I thought home field would still meant something in Seattle, but they only had 128 total yards against Arizona's defense. Arizona doesn't even have an average defense! That is atrocious. I can't tell you how bad the Seahawks played in this one, words can't describe it.
Fantasy Impact: Anquan Boldin got hurt in this one and might miss some time. Steve Breaton is full healthy however and looks like a great option for Arizona, getting 77 yards and a touchdown. Add him if someone in your league dropped him earlier in the season. Don't add any Seahawks.
Raiders/Eagles: These are the games that show why you can't beat the house. Why Las Vegas stays in business. Why gamblers rarely ever make money. There was no reason the Raiders would beat the Eagles in this one. On paper, they were thoroughly dominated in every conceivable way. They were my lock of the week. Many were leaving their survival pool lives on the backs of the Eagles. And then, they lost. I don't think this tells us anything about either team. The Raiders are still bad, the Eagles are still good, but I have to wonder if Andy Reid can lead this team back to a Super Bowl if he is letting his team roll over against a team that was running backwards in every way. Shame on you Eagles. If you lose to the Raiders, you did it to yourself.
Fantasy Impact: I apologize for saying you could drop Zach Miller. I thought his quarterback and injuries would really hamper a tight end that I really liked going into the year. I feel your pain those who did drop him, as he was a killer on Sunday. 139 yards and a touchdown. He might still be available, and if he is, you can add him back, but don't expect this every week. Don't ask me why the Eagles weren't effective. Play calling maybe? I didn't watch the game so its tough to put my finger on it, but I wouldn't be too worried.
Patriots/Titans: Yeah, so my team is terrible. So what? They should be starting Vince Young and seeing what they have. The secondary is hurt and bad, they can't rush the passer, and they certainly couldn't move the ball in the snow. The Patriots are still the Patriots and Tom Brady is still Tom Brady. He won me a fantasy matchup and I knew he'd go off. The Titans just don't have it. Please don't get rid of Jeff Fisher, its not his fault they stink. I'm rooting for the draft! This was a predictable game, only I didn't quite expect the Patriots to run it up so much, but hey, this is the NFL and I think if you can't stop them, they have every right to keep scoring.
Fantasy Impact: Hmm... the Patriots all did awesome and the Titans all did nothing. Ok so its not that simple. Sammy Morris got hurt, opening the door for Laurence Maroney to be THE guy running the ball. If you trust him, add him, but only if you really need to. He's still tough to put a lot of stake in, even though he performed well along with everyone else on his team. Chris Johnson is the only guy you can rely on on that Titans team for fantasy purposes. Unless Vince Young comes in and starts throwing actual complete passes. What a miserable game.
Jets/Bills: Ya think maybe we were all a little too quick to crown Mark Sanchez king of New York? They beat an enigmatic Houston team, a bad Titans team (which was close) and the Patriots before they were the Patriots again. Ever since they have gone 0-3 and Sanchez has looked, well, like a rookie. I didn't expect the Jets to be good for precisely this reason, and if he doesn't get back to playing a serviceable game, they could end up losing a whole lot more games and wasting a great defense. 5 picks is ridiculous.
Fantasy Impact: Sanchez totally wasted a brilliant 210 yard game from Thomas Jones. He continues to prove me wrong. I have never liked him, especially this year, but he makes me look silly. The reason I thought he would sharply decline, aside from his age, is Leon Washington, but they have been able to coexist nicely. Sanchez just kept giving the ball right back before they could score, so Jones got the lone touchdown for the Jets. Dustin Keller was targeted 10 times and only caught two balls. I'm giving him one more week to get on track. If he doesn't do something against the Raiders, I say drop him. Trent Edwards suffered a concussion and Ryan Fitzpatrick took over. He should at least start next week, and possibly beyond, if you are desperate in a 2 QB league.
Falcons/Bears: I like this Falcons team a lot. A lot of people seem to not be buying them as an elite team but I absolutely am. The Bears are a good team that could be undefeated if they weren't faced with a tough early schedule. Very good for a Sunday night game. Ultimately, I think the better team won. The defenses were the story, and Atlanta proved they aren't just a high flying offense. Cutler threw well for the Bears, but also threw two picks which were big for Atlanta's D. Good game, proved both teams are legit, that's about all.
Fantasy Impact: Both top 4 picks in this game underperformed, but especially Forte. I still say he's a buy low candidate. He can't be this bad all year. He just can't. Greg Olsen got in the end zone, a good sign for his owners.
Broncos/Chargers: I really liked the Chargers at home coming off a bye, but Norv Turner just killed them. Mismanaging his players, calling bad time outs, bad plays. The guy just sucks. I said that I'd never make another NFL prediction if they didn't win the AFC West. Well, I'm kicking myself now for not remembering the fact that Norv Turner can single handedly bring this team crashing down. I also didn't think the Broncos would be anywhere close to this good. I still think the Chargers are a good football team and will challenge the Broncos out west (and of course I used hyperbole preseason) but if they keep playing like this, it doesn't look good. The Broncos just look fantastic in every way. Who knew Kyle Orton was the next Peyton Manning? How do the Bears fans feel right now?
Fantasy Impact: Ladanian Tomlinson actually had a serviceable game, with 70 on the ground and 30 through the air. This still isn't the guy you drafted, and I do mean you, I wasn't going anywhere near him as you know by now. Over the hill LT will never be a star again. Tony Scheffler should be added if you are looking for a tight end. Kyle Orton is making a case to start in 10 team leagues. If he has a good match up, you might want to role with him.
That's all for me tonight. Power Rankings up tomorrow, Picks on Saturday this week! Stay tuned
Fantasy Impact: Pierre Thomas was more efficient running the ball, but he did not get the goal line carries. Who knows how that shakes out the rest of the way but it has to make you believe that Mike Bell is still rosterable in deeper leagues. Lance Moore had his best game of the season, but you can't really rely on any Saints receiver other than Colston. Brees likes to get the ball to the open man, and that could be anyone on any play. Hakeem Nicks had a big game for the Giants, but most came on one pass. I wouldn't rush out to add the rookie.
And now, on to the rest of the NFL:
Vikings/Ravens: This was a wonderful football game. The Vikings looked like they clearly had the game in hand, and then the Ravens came charging back. I loved it. Then CBS had to pull it off in the final minutes and I didn't get to see Steven Hauschka miss the field goal. Bottom line, yes, the Vikings are better than I initially thought and the Brett Favre experiment is working, for now. I still don't think he will hold up over the course of a 16 game season, but at this time, they have played outstanding. The Ravens defense clearly misses Rex Ryan. They are a shaddow of their former selves. However, the combination of Joe Flacco and Ray Rice are scoring points each and every week. Ray Rice is a star folks. He was my favorite target this year in fantasy and I have him on every team. I wanted him at any cost, and he will be a first round pick next year. Both of these teams are about even, home field may have swung it. Or maybe it was just Hauschka's foot.
Fantasy Impact: Shame on me for not mentioning Sydney Rice yet this season. He just had his breakout game. If he's still available in your league, I don't know why, but add him. He is Favre's favorite target. He is a top 30 receiver right now. This game was all about the Rice's, as I mentioned with Ray getting 77 on the ground on 10 carries (Willis McGahee put the nails in his own coffin with 3 yards on 7 carries) and 117 yards on 10 catches out of 11 targets. He also scored 2 touchdowns, so owners don't even need to worry about him not getting into the end zone this year. I honestly see him challenging Adrian Peterson for top fantasy honors this season. Peterson had a terrific day himself, going for 143 yards, but no touchdowns. He had an ankle injury at the end of the game, but it does not appear serious.
Steelers/Browns: The Browns stink, the Steelers are still pretty good. Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn are both awful, and the Browns may not win again. That's all their is to really say about this one. On to the fantasy news.
Fantasy Impact: Hines Ward is quietly having an exceptional season. 8 catches for 159 in this one. If you drafted him I commend you. I personally thought he might be over the hill, but he has proven the doubters wrong again and again. Willie Parker was back, but Mendenhall got 17 carries to Parker's 7. Look for this ratio to continue. Mendenhall is the back you want, and if you haven't dropped Parker yet, you can go ahead.
Panthers/Buccanneers: This game was another one of those pointless games between two awful teams. Its not worth spending any time on.
Fantasy Impact: Steve Smith (CAR) has said that he is no longer an asset to Carolina. Umm, not exactly a ringing endorsement to his fantasy prospects. His stock is plummeting, so if anyone out there still believes, you'll be able to get him cheap. I'm not one who does. Deangelo Williams had the day you drafted him for, finally. He'll be fine.
Chiefs/Redskins: The Chiefs are bad. The Redskins are worse. Moving on.
Fantasy impact: Larry Johnson had a serviceable game, but I still don't think he's rosterable. Clinton Portis averaged 7.3 yards per carry, but that isn't saying much against the Chiefs run defense. Jason Campbell was pulled, but he remains the starter, so if you are relying on him as a back up in 2 QB leagues, you can still keep him. That's about the only reason you'd want him on your team though.
Rams/Jaguars: I picked the Jaguars in my survival pools this week and they game me quite a scare. However, they pulled it out. Poor Rams. This is 16 in a row for them, and they have performed worse than the Lions over that time frame. Can they win a game? We'll see.
Fantasy Impact: MJD is showing us all that he can in fact carry a full load. 33 carries, 133 yards, 3 touchdowns. Outstanding work, and if you faced him, I'm willing to bet the outcome wasn't favorable. Mike Sims-Walker game back from his one game suspension and once again went over the century mark in yards. Bold prediction: He is a top 10 wide receiver by the end of the year in per game fantasy points. Torry Holt also had a nice game, catching 5 for 101 yards. All of the scores went to Jones-Drew though. Stephen Jackson has to get into the end zone sooner or later right? At least he is putting up yards and actually staying on the field. That should be all his owners really want at this point.
Texans/Bengals: Is it just me, or are these the two hardest teams to judge in the whole NFL? I can't figure them out from week to week. They either come out very strong or very lackluster. I think if they played 10 times, they would go 5-5. Both teams could be Super Bowl contenders on a good day, or in the bottom third of the league on a bad one. These teams are going to be very interesting to watch the rest of the way.
Fantasy Impact: Matt Schaub is making his bid to be a top 5 fantasy QB this season. He qualifies right now, and a few more games like this could solidify that campaign. Andre Johnson broke the Bengals string of shutting down number 1 receivers, going for 135 on 8 carries. Steve Slaton was much more effective through the air than on the ground, but you loved his day regardless of how he got it done. Owen Daniels scored two touchdowns, much to my delight (loved him this year) and is making a case to break into the Gates/Gonzalez/Witten group of tight ends on draft day. Maybe he'll even surpass them? For Cincinnati, Cedric Benson was finally stopped, gaining only 44 yards on 16 carries. I doubt anyone thought that would come from Houston. The sell high window may be closing (I will never advise buying Benson). If Andre Caldwell is available in your league and you need a wide receiver, he is a good option. Its pretty obvious he has become the number 2 option for Carson Palmer, and Chris Henry is nowhere in sight, confirming my pre-draft thinking that he'd be a bust.
Packers/Lions: The Packers come off the bye with a beatdown of the Lions. They dominated in every way, especially defensively, only giving up 149 total yards. I'm not giving up on the Packers for this season. I still think they are serious Super Bowl contenders.
Fantasy Impact: Calvin Johnson didn't play and his owners can only hope his injury isn't very serious. They, and the Lions for that matter, need Megatron to come back and perform. They had no offense with him and Stafford out of the lineup. Their bye is coming at the best time for them.
Cardinals/Seahawks: Ok, so I was wrong about this one. The Cardinals definitely still have something left in the tank and Seattle is not the bounce back team. I thought home field would still meant something in Seattle, but they only had 128 total yards against Arizona's defense. Arizona doesn't even have an average defense! That is atrocious. I can't tell you how bad the Seahawks played in this one, words can't describe it.
Fantasy Impact: Anquan Boldin got hurt in this one and might miss some time. Steve Breaton is full healthy however and looks like a great option for Arizona, getting 77 yards and a touchdown. Add him if someone in your league dropped him earlier in the season. Don't add any Seahawks.
Raiders/Eagles: These are the games that show why you can't beat the house. Why Las Vegas stays in business. Why gamblers rarely ever make money. There was no reason the Raiders would beat the Eagles in this one. On paper, they were thoroughly dominated in every conceivable way. They were my lock of the week. Many were leaving their survival pool lives on the backs of the Eagles. And then, they lost. I don't think this tells us anything about either team. The Raiders are still bad, the Eagles are still good, but I have to wonder if Andy Reid can lead this team back to a Super Bowl if he is letting his team roll over against a team that was running backwards in every way. Shame on you Eagles. If you lose to the Raiders, you did it to yourself.
Fantasy Impact: I apologize for saying you could drop Zach Miller. I thought his quarterback and injuries would really hamper a tight end that I really liked going into the year. I feel your pain those who did drop him, as he was a killer on Sunday. 139 yards and a touchdown. He might still be available, and if he is, you can add him back, but don't expect this every week. Don't ask me why the Eagles weren't effective. Play calling maybe? I didn't watch the game so its tough to put my finger on it, but I wouldn't be too worried.
Patriots/Titans: Yeah, so my team is terrible. So what? They should be starting Vince Young and seeing what they have. The secondary is hurt and bad, they can't rush the passer, and they certainly couldn't move the ball in the snow. The Patriots are still the Patriots and Tom Brady is still Tom Brady. He won me a fantasy matchup and I knew he'd go off. The Titans just don't have it. Please don't get rid of Jeff Fisher, its not his fault they stink. I'm rooting for the draft! This was a predictable game, only I didn't quite expect the Patriots to run it up so much, but hey, this is the NFL and I think if you can't stop them, they have every right to keep scoring.
Fantasy Impact: Hmm... the Patriots all did awesome and the Titans all did nothing. Ok so its not that simple. Sammy Morris got hurt, opening the door for Laurence Maroney to be THE guy running the ball. If you trust him, add him, but only if you really need to. He's still tough to put a lot of stake in, even though he performed well along with everyone else on his team. Chris Johnson is the only guy you can rely on on that Titans team for fantasy purposes. Unless Vince Young comes in and starts throwing actual complete passes. What a miserable game.
Jets/Bills: Ya think maybe we were all a little too quick to crown Mark Sanchez king of New York? They beat an enigmatic Houston team, a bad Titans team (which was close) and the Patriots before they were the Patriots again. Ever since they have gone 0-3 and Sanchez has looked, well, like a rookie. I didn't expect the Jets to be good for precisely this reason, and if he doesn't get back to playing a serviceable game, they could end up losing a whole lot more games and wasting a great defense. 5 picks is ridiculous.
Fantasy Impact: Sanchez totally wasted a brilliant 210 yard game from Thomas Jones. He continues to prove me wrong. I have never liked him, especially this year, but he makes me look silly. The reason I thought he would sharply decline, aside from his age, is Leon Washington, but they have been able to coexist nicely. Sanchez just kept giving the ball right back before they could score, so Jones got the lone touchdown for the Jets. Dustin Keller was targeted 10 times and only caught two balls. I'm giving him one more week to get on track. If he doesn't do something against the Raiders, I say drop him. Trent Edwards suffered a concussion and Ryan Fitzpatrick took over. He should at least start next week, and possibly beyond, if you are desperate in a 2 QB league.
Falcons/Bears: I like this Falcons team a lot. A lot of people seem to not be buying them as an elite team but I absolutely am. The Bears are a good team that could be undefeated if they weren't faced with a tough early schedule. Very good for a Sunday night game. Ultimately, I think the better team won. The defenses were the story, and Atlanta proved they aren't just a high flying offense. Cutler threw well for the Bears, but also threw two picks which were big for Atlanta's D. Good game, proved both teams are legit, that's about all.
Fantasy Impact: Both top 4 picks in this game underperformed, but especially Forte. I still say he's a buy low candidate. He can't be this bad all year. He just can't. Greg Olsen got in the end zone, a good sign for his owners.
Broncos/Chargers: I really liked the Chargers at home coming off a bye, but Norv Turner just killed them. Mismanaging his players, calling bad time outs, bad plays. The guy just sucks. I said that I'd never make another NFL prediction if they didn't win the AFC West. Well, I'm kicking myself now for not remembering the fact that Norv Turner can single handedly bring this team crashing down. I also didn't think the Broncos would be anywhere close to this good. I still think the Chargers are a good football team and will challenge the Broncos out west (and of course I used hyperbole preseason) but if they keep playing like this, it doesn't look good. The Broncos just look fantastic in every way. Who knew Kyle Orton was the next Peyton Manning? How do the Bears fans feel right now?
Fantasy Impact: Ladanian Tomlinson actually had a serviceable game, with 70 on the ground and 30 through the air. This still isn't the guy you drafted, and I do mean you, I wasn't going anywhere near him as you know by now. Over the hill LT will never be a star again. Tony Scheffler should be added if you are looking for a tight end. Kyle Orton is making a case to start in 10 team leagues. If he has a good match up, you might want to role with him.
That's all for me tonight. Power Rankings up tomorrow, Picks on Saturday this week! Stay tuned
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Week 6 Picks
Houston (+5) over CINCINNATI
GREEN BAY (-13.5) over Detroit
Baltimore (+3) over MINNESOTA
PITTSBURGH (-14) over Cleveland
Carolina (-3.5) over TAMPA BAY
JACKSONVILLE (-10) over St. Louis
SEATTLE (-3) over Arizona
NEW ENGLAND (-9.5) over Tennessee
NEW YORK JETS (-10) over Buffalo
ATLANTA (-3) over Chicago
SAN DIEGO (-4) over Denver
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Kansas City (+6.5) over WASHINGTON
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
NEW ORLEANS (-3) over New York Giants
Lock of the Week
Philadelphia (-14) over OAKLAND
Last Week: 6-8
Overall: 40-36
Lock Picks: 8-7
GREEN BAY (-13.5) over Detroit
Baltimore (+3) over MINNESOTA
PITTSBURGH (-14) over Cleveland
Carolina (-3.5) over TAMPA BAY
JACKSONVILLE (-10) over St. Louis
SEATTLE (-3) over Arizona
NEW ENGLAND (-9.5) over Tennessee
NEW YORK JETS (-10) over Buffalo
ATLANTA (-3) over Chicago
SAN DIEGO (-4) over Denver
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Kansas City (+6.5) over WASHINGTON
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
NEW ORLEANS (-3) over New York Giants
Lock of the Week
Philadelphia (-14) over OAKLAND
Last Week: 6-8
Overall: 40-36
Lock Picks: 8-7
Week 6 Power Rankings
No Column this week, no recap, no nothing. I'm still too angry/depressed/crushed beyond recognition over the devastating way the Red Sox ended their season at Fenway Park on Sunday. You'll have to settle for Power Rankings, picks to come later. One thing we definitely learned this week though, those Broncos are for real, the rankings will reflect that.
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Philadelphia Eagles
4. Denver Broncos
5. Atlanta Falcons
6. New England Patriots
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Minnesota Vikings
9. Baltimore Ravens
10. Cincinnati Bengals
11. New York Giants
12. New York Jets
13. San Diego Chargers
14. Green Bay Packers
15. Chicago Bears
16. Seattle Seahawks
17. Arizona Cardinals
18. Dallas Cowboys
19. San Francisco 49ers
20. Miami Dolphins
21. Houston Texans
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Tennessee Titans
24. Carolina Panthers
25. Detroit Lions
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Washington Redskins
28. Buffalo Bills
29. Cleveland Browns
30. Oakland Raiders
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Philadelphia Eagles
4. Denver Broncos
5. Atlanta Falcons
6. New England Patriots
7. Pittsburgh Steelers
8. Minnesota Vikings
9. Baltimore Ravens
10. Cincinnati Bengals
11. New York Giants
12. New York Jets
13. San Diego Chargers
14. Green Bay Packers
15. Chicago Bears
16. Seattle Seahawks
17. Arizona Cardinals
18. Dallas Cowboys
19. San Francisco 49ers
20. Miami Dolphins
21. Houston Texans
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Tennessee Titans
24. Carolina Panthers
25. Detroit Lions
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Washington Redskins
28. Buffalo Bills
29. Cleveland Browns
30. Oakland Raiders
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
Friday, October 9, 2009
Week 5 Picks
An actual column to go with the picks this week! Its the least I could do considering the abysmal performance from last week. Here's hoping I come through a little better this time around:
KANSAS CITY (+8) over Dallas
As I wrote in my weekly review column, I don't think Dallas is a good team. I think Kansas City is a horrible team, and think the Cowboys should win the game, but it won't be by more than 8 points. I actually expect a nice game from Matt Cassel in this one. Dallas has a tough time against the pass and he is due to show us what he can really do. KC keeps it close enough to cover.
CAROLINA (-4) over Washington
This game sucks. Both teams are exceptionally bad and I wouldn't want to watch a minute of it. I think Carolina is actually slightly better and they are at home so I think they can win this game, but it will be ugly. Really, who knows when two awful teams get together. We'll really figure out which is worse.
PHILADELPHIA (-15.5) over Tampa Bay
You know I love Philadelphia and hate Tampa Bay. As with Minnesota, this line couldn't be high enough. I can't see Tampa hanging anywhere close to this Eagles team, especially with McNabb back. This one is over before it starts.
Oakland (+15) over NEW YORK GIANTS
Oakland looks awful and they are hurting, but so are the Giants. Eli has been suffering from plantar fasciitis all week and if he plays, it will bother him. I don't think the Giants are that good even with a healthy Eli. Of course, I think it will be enough to get them past the Raiders, but it will be within 2 touchdowns. I expect a low scoring game as the Giants just try and salt this one away and control the clock.
BUFFALO (-6) over Cleveland
I hate these games where two distinctly awful teams play each other. What are they playing for? Buffalo is a little less bad, and they are at home. I expect them to run all over Cleveland's defense. That moral victory against Cincinnati earns Cleveland no points in my book. Buffalo shouldn't struggle.
Cincinnati (+8.5) over BALTIMORE
Cincinnati responded in week two after a tough loss to Denver in week one. I see more of the same happening here after narrowly beating an awful Cleveland team last week. I think they come back fired up, ready to go, and I wouldn't be surprised if they beat Baltimore outright. I definitely think it will be within a touchdown so take all those points.
Atlanta (+2.5) over SAN FRANSISCO
I think the Falcons are a better team than the 49ers and they are the underdogs in this one. The Niners are coming off a blowout over the Rams and now they have to come back and play a fresh and hungry Falcons team coming off a bye. I just think everything points to the Falcons in this one.
New England (-3.5) over DENVER
This is the game where we find out if Denver is for real. I just don't think they are. They could certainly prove me wrong, but the Patriots proved that they can beat anyone in football when they handled the Ravens last week. The master beats the student in this one.
Houston (+5.5) over Arizona
I think the Texans win this game. They are heating up and Arizona just doesn't impress me. Look for lots of points but Houston is going to put a dagger in Arizona's hopes that they are as good as they were last year and finally get people to start taking them seriously. If I had to pick an underdog to win, they are it.
Jacksonville (+1) over SEATTLE
I'm as baffled as Vegas is with this game. I think Seattle is a decent team that might be able to turn their season around. But I also saw Jacksonville demolish Tennessee last weekend. I am thinking they can ride that to a win in this game, and they are a slight underdog at the moment.
New York Jets (-2) over MIAMI
This is going to be a gritty, hard-nosed game won by defense. That is why I am taking the Jets. They have the better defense, Miami will struggle to score on them, and I trust Sanchez more than Henne not to kill his team. Should be a close game then.
Second Runner-Up Lock of the Week
Pittsburgh (-10.5) over DETROIT
I can't see how Detroit is going to move the ball against Pittsburgh's defense. They may have to start Culpepper and Polamalu might be back in the Steeler's lineup so I really can't see them putting up too many points. Conversely, they gave up 48 to the Bears and I see no reason they have any better luck against the Steelers. This one won't be close.
First Runner-Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-4) over TENNESSEE
Indy is absolutely rolling. They are red hot and Tennessee is about as cold as can be. This isn't the team to bounce back against. It really could get ugly. Peyton is putting together an unbelievable season. That doesn't bode well for a team that can't stop the pass. It will be a hard game for me to watch.
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Minnesota (-10.5) over ST. LOUIS
St. Louis lost by 35 to San Fransisco. Minnesota beat Green Bay by 7. St. Louis is a winless team that is arguably the worst in the league. Minnesota is undefeated and playing great football. Sometimes, its really easy. I'd take Minnesota -20. AP is going to go off in this one. If you are facing him in fantasy this week, don't get your hopes up.
Last Week: 4-10
Overall: 34-28
Lock Picks: 6-6
KANSAS CITY (+8) over Dallas
As I wrote in my weekly review column, I don't think Dallas is a good team. I think Kansas City is a horrible team, and think the Cowboys should win the game, but it won't be by more than 8 points. I actually expect a nice game from Matt Cassel in this one. Dallas has a tough time against the pass and he is due to show us what he can really do. KC keeps it close enough to cover.
CAROLINA (-4) over Washington
This game sucks. Both teams are exceptionally bad and I wouldn't want to watch a minute of it. I think Carolina is actually slightly better and they are at home so I think they can win this game, but it will be ugly. Really, who knows when two awful teams get together. We'll really figure out which is worse.
PHILADELPHIA (-15.5) over Tampa Bay
You know I love Philadelphia and hate Tampa Bay. As with Minnesota, this line couldn't be high enough. I can't see Tampa hanging anywhere close to this Eagles team, especially with McNabb back. This one is over before it starts.
Oakland (+15) over NEW YORK GIANTS
Oakland looks awful and they are hurting, but so are the Giants. Eli has been suffering from plantar fasciitis all week and if he plays, it will bother him. I don't think the Giants are that good even with a healthy Eli. Of course, I think it will be enough to get them past the Raiders, but it will be within 2 touchdowns. I expect a low scoring game as the Giants just try and salt this one away and control the clock.
BUFFALO (-6) over Cleveland
I hate these games where two distinctly awful teams play each other. What are they playing for? Buffalo is a little less bad, and they are at home. I expect them to run all over Cleveland's defense. That moral victory against Cincinnati earns Cleveland no points in my book. Buffalo shouldn't struggle.
Cincinnati (+8.5) over BALTIMORE
Cincinnati responded in week two after a tough loss to Denver in week one. I see more of the same happening here after narrowly beating an awful Cleveland team last week. I think they come back fired up, ready to go, and I wouldn't be surprised if they beat Baltimore outright. I definitely think it will be within a touchdown so take all those points.
Atlanta (+2.5) over SAN FRANSISCO
I think the Falcons are a better team than the 49ers and they are the underdogs in this one. The Niners are coming off a blowout over the Rams and now they have to come back and play a fresh and hungry Falcons team coming off a bye. I just think everything points to the Falcons in this one.
New England (-3.5) over DENVER
This is the game where we find out if Denver is for real. I just don't think they are. They could certainly prove me wrong, but the Patriots proved that they can beat anyone in football when they handled the Ravens last week. The master beats the student in this one.
Houston (+5.5) over Arizona
I think the Texans win this game. They are heating up and Arizona just doesn't impress me. Look for lots of points but Houston is going to put a dagger in Arizona's hopes that they are as good as they were last year and finally get people to start taking them seriously. If I had to pick an underdog to win, they are it.
Jacksonville (+1) over SEATTLE
I'm as baffled as Vegas is with this game. I think Seattle is a decent team that might be able to turn their season around. But I also saw Jacksonville demolish Tennessee last weekend. I am thinking they can ride that to a win in this game, and they are a slight underdog at the moment.
New York Jets (-2) over MIAMI
This is going to be a gritty, hard-nosed game won by defense. That is why I am taking the Jets. They have the better defense, Miami will struggle to score on them, and I trust Sanchez more than Henne not to kill his team. Should be a close game then.
Second Runner-Up Lock of the Week
Pittsburgh (-10.5) over DETROIT
I can't see how Detroit is going to move the ball against Pittsburgh's defense. They may have to start Culpepper and Polamalu might be back in the Steeler's lineup so I really can't see them putting up too many points. Conversely, they gave up 48 to the Bears and I see no reason they have any better luck against the Steelers. This one won't be close.
First Runner-Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-4) over TENNESSEE
Indy is absolutely rolling. They are red hot and Tennessee is about as cold as can be. This isn't the team to bounce back against. It really could get ugly. Peyton is putting together an unbelievable season. That doesn't bode well for a team that can't stop the pass. It will be a hard game for me to watch.
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Minnesota (-10.5) over ST. LOUIS
St. Louis lost by 35 to San Fransisco. Minnesota beat Green Bay by 7. St. Louis is a winless team that is arguably the worst in the league. Minnesota is undefeated and playing great football. Sometimes, its really easy. I'd take Minnesota -20. AP is going to go off in this one. If you are facing him in fantasy this week, don't get your hopes up.
Last Week: 4-10
Overall: 34-28
Lock Picks: 6-6
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
NFL Power Rankings
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Philadelphia Eagles
4. New England Patriots
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
6. Baltimore Ravens
7. New York Jets
8. Minnesota Vikings
9. San Diego Chargers
10. Atlanta Falcons
11. Green Bay Packers
12. Denver Broncos
13. Chicago Bears
14. New York Giants
15. Cincinnati Bengals
16. Houston Texans
17. San Francisco 49ers
18. Arizona Cardinals
19. Dallas Cowboys
20. Jacksonville Jaguars
21. Tennessee Titans
22. Seattle Seahawks
23. Miami Dolphins
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Carolina Panthers
26. Detroit Lions
27. Washington Redskins
28. Oakland Raiders
29. Kansas City Chiefs
30. Cleveland Browns
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Philadelphia Eagles
4. New England Patriots
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
6. Baltimore Ravens
7. New York Jets
8. Minnesota Vikings
9. San Diego Chargers
10. Atlanta Falcons
11. Green Bay Packers
12. Denver Broncos
13. Chicago Bears
14. New York Giants
15. Cincinnati Bengals
16. Houston Texans
17. San Francisco 49ers
18. Arizona Cardinals
19. Dallas Cowboys
20. Jacksonville Jaguars
21. Tennessee Titans
22. Seattle Seahawks
23. Miami Dolphins
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Carolina Panthers
26. Detroit Lions
27. Washington Redskins
28. Oakland Raiders
29. Kansas City Chiefs
30. Cleveland Browns
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. St. Louis Rams
NFL Week in Review
What a strange and crazy week 4 we had! It definitely wreaked havoc on my picks (hey we all have an off week)! I don't entirely know what to make of most of the games, but here's what I've got for you:
Ravens/Patriots
Wes Welker was back and Tom Brady loved it. He was targeted 10 times in this game and I have to say that makes a serious difference in this offense. They proved by beating the Ravens that they can still hang with anyone in this league. That is two wins in a row over quality teams coming off the loss to the Jets. Both of these teams will be fine moving forward.
Fantasy Impact: Welker did only have 48 yards but those in PPR leagues continue to love him, getting 6 catches on the day. Ray Rice continues to produce a ton of yards without the touchdowns, which has to be both rewarding and frustrating for his owners (and I own him in a ton of leagues so I know). He is so close to being a stud, but that pesky McGahee is in his way. Derrick Mason caught 7 passes on 11 targets including a touchdown and proved why he's not ready to leave the game just yet. You still want nothing to do with the New England backfield.
Buccaneers/Redskins
This is the type of game that makes me want to throw up. These teams are just terrible. Someone had to win and the Bucs proved why they are slightly worse. The only reason the Redskins have one win, let alone two is because they have had such an easy schedule. Neither team is worthy of a win, at least Tampa doesn't have any to show. Josh Johnson showed that he wasn't much better than Leftwich as their offense had a miserable time moving the ball. Campbell wasn't much better. Why am I still talking about this?
Fantasy Impact: Chris Cooley and Santana Moss are rewarding their owners. Antonio Bryant came back and got in the end zone, but really, anyone worth owning on these crappy teams is owned, so there was very little fantasy relevance.
Titans/Jaguars
I don't know what has happened to my Titans, but they stink this season. To get spanked by a mediocre Jacksonville team is unacceptable. They just can't stop anyone through the air. They have always been a defensive-minded team and that seems to be gone. I think its certainly time to give up on any playoff hopes they had and it really is a shame. They are actually moving the ball pretty well and the rookie Kenny Britt really looks sharp out there. Unfortunately this just isn't their year. Its not like its the Jaguars year either, but they were just better in this one.
Fantasy Impact: Like I said, Kenny Britt has been really good and should only get better as the season progresses. Nate Washington got into the end zone once again and he is also a definitely fantasy relevant receiver in Tennessee. They didn't have two fantasy ownable receivers all of last season. This is partly due to talent, and partly because they are behind in games and need to throw the ball a lot more. You better have added Mike Sims-Walker when I told you too. Seriously, he has been great. 11 targets when no other Jacksonville receiver had more than 5. He is THE guy.
Raiders/Texans
The Texans came through easily in this one as one game I actually got right. They kept me alive in my survivor pools and proved that its really easy to beat the Raiders. Like, really easy. Because they have a quarterback that should be in the CFL. Not to mention their best running back is going to miss 2-4 weeks and their best receiver, tight end Zach Miller is also hurt. They are a bad team fully healthy, they are appallingly bad when banged up. The Texans finally got Steve Slaton going (and they get a big thank you from his patient fantasy owners) for 2 touchdowns, one on the ground and one through the air. That is all they would need.
Fantasy Impact: The big impact comes from the injuries for the Raiders. With McFadden out, I like Michael Bush to get a boost in carries as I just don't trust Justin Fargas. Not that either will be great, but if you need a running back, go get Bush if he's available, which he might be. Miller's injury isn't as serious, but he will still probably miss some time. There are enough tight ends out there that you should be able to drop him no problem and get a replacement.
Bears/Lions
The Lions were able to hang with them for a half, but the superior team pulled away in the second, burying the hopes of a winning streak for Lions fans. They still have a ton of issues on defense, but they are still a young rebuilding team, what did we really expect from this one?
Fantasy Impact: Matthew Stafford was hurt but you probably didn't own him anyway. With Pittsburgh coming up I wouldn't rush out and grab Daunte Culpepper either. Gotta love the big game out of Matt Forte, but it was the Lions. still, a 10 yard per carry average is amazing against any team. 121 yards on 12 carries. He didn't need to do much more. Calvin Johnson went over 100 yards for the Lions and he is just an absolute beast catching 8 balls on 12 targets. Injured Kevin Smith had 2 tds, but only 30 yards. I'm sorry if you had him on the bench, like me, not knowing if he'd play or not. He should be good to go the rest of the way, but Pittsburgh is a daunting task for him to run against. I'd keep him out.
Bengals/Browns
What do you know, the Browns ALMOST pulled off a win! Almost. This may have been their best chance too. Or maybe not, they might be a better team with Derek Anderson at the helm. Its too early to tell. They traded away Braylon Edwards to the Jets so they got rid of one cancer. They bring in Chanci Stuckey who doesn't have the upside of Edwards, but also shouldn't cause that many problems. That said, they are still very bad and may have let their one win slip in OT. The Bengals should be embarrassed, but should be able to regroup with the win. I still think they are a legitimate team, believe it or not.
Fantasy Impact: With the loss of Edwards, Muhammed Massaquoi gets a huge boost in value, especially coming off an 8 catch, 148 yard performance. He is the wide receiver add of the week. Go get him while you still can! Jerome Harrison had a big game as well. I was wrong on that situation, but so were a lot of experts. We all expected James Davis to be the guy who replaced Jamal Lewis in the inevitable injury. Well we were wrong, Harrison is the guy and he's looked great doing it. Ochocinco got in the end zone twice on only 3 catches. At least he really made them count!
Colts/Seahawks
Peyton Manning is the MVP of the league right now and its not close. He has led this Colts team back to the top of the AFC. I know it was a Seneca Wallace led Seahawks team but Peyton shredded them. He is going to shred Tennessee next weekend as well in a game I am dreading. Even with the loss of number two receiver Anthony Gonzalez that offense hasn't slowed a bit. They could be the best team in football. Even though Wallace wasn't that bad, the Seahawks still need their leader back in Hasselbeck. They are hoping for a return this week.
Fantasy Impact: TJ Houshmandzadeh led the offense for Seattle and that is very good for his owners after he got off to a relatively slow start. The 103 yard day makes me feel confident that no matter who is throwing him the ball will learn that they need to get it to him. He is by far the best they have. Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie both had useful days for deep league managers and I think both should be owned before next week. Both Indy running backs reached the end zone, and continue to split the carries pretty evenly.
Giants/Chiefs
You know by now how I feel about the Giants. Until they beat a legitimate team, I am not willing to say that they are any good. The teams they have beaten have a combined record of 4-12. The 4 wins that those teams have gotten came from Tampa Bay twice, The Rams and The Carolina Panthers, all teams that are absolutely horrible and have a combined record of 0-12. So basically, the Giants are 4-0 against the easiest schedule in football. Why is everyone crowning them? They get 1-3 Oakland this week and will move to 5-0. We have an undefeated team that is completely mediocre and everyone wants to put them in the top 3 of the NFL. No way! I can't wait to see how they do against the Saints, because I predict devastation. Oh yeah, and the Chiefs are bad.
Fantasy Impact: I said it last week, but wasn't really certain. This is the week where i totally believe it: LJ is done, washed up, not even worthy of a bench spot. Drop him now. He's just bad. Remember when there was a time where you might have attempted to trick a lesser manager into trading for the wrong Steve Smith, thinking that they were getting the one who plays for Carolina but instead it was the one on the Giants? Well that Steve Smith has been a force to be reckoned with this season, far surpassing the production of the more popular Smith. I think its safe to say that he is the number one go to guy for Eli and his production will remain high for the year, and will most likely remain ahead of Carolina's Steve. What were the odds of that before the season? 10,000 to 1?
Jets/Saints
The Saints proved what a complete team they are by humiliating Mark Sanchez for 3 interceptions and only 138 yards. Most of the offense came from the defense, as the Jets also did a good job slowing down Drew Brees. The Jets live and die by preventing the other team from scoring and not making mistakes on offense. The Saints forced those mistakes, so they came out clearly on top. Teams need to force Mark Sanchez to try and beat them, because although his team is 3-1, he is not the reason why. I still think the Saints are the best team in football.
Fantasy Impact: Braylon Edwards comes to the Jets next week and adds a weapon for Sanchez. That is, if you think Edwards is a weapon. His value should be even worse here than it was in Cleveland. You never should have drafted him. He was number one on my "don't touch" list this season. Pierre Thomas sure is dangerous, proving he can do it through the ground or the air against a very good defense. I think he'll be a first round pick next season if he stays healthy.
Bills/Dolphins
So this was a matchup of two bad teams so I'm not going to spend a lot of time on it. Trent Edwards is a bad quarterback and the Bills don't seem to realize this. They are going nowhere if they think he is their QB of the future. Chad Henne was very efficient for the Dolphins and will probably have the job, but heir offense is all about the run. The Bills couldn't stop it, that's why they lost.
Fantasy Impact: If you have anything to do with the passing games for either of these teams, you made a mistake. TO, Lee Evans, Ted Ginn Jr, and both quarterbacks all stink, (probably just because the QB's stink, the WRs are affected negatively). If you have the running games, you may have hit the jackpot. Both teams have 2 fantasy relevant running backs that should be owned and usually started in all leagues.
Cowboys/Broncos
I learned one thing from this game and its pretty major: the Dallas Cowboys are not very good. I know the Broncos are 4-0 and have played very good defense, but have they really played a good team? I don't think they have. The Cowboys have proven to be mediocre at best, and they can't win a big game. Tony Romo just might not be very good. His receiving corps hasn't been good this season with the absence of Terrell Owens. Roy Williams is not a strong number one receiver and the team should be running the ball a lot more. Wade Phillips is a terrible coach. You can not tell me that Romo throwing 42 times while only running the ball 25 times is smart for this team. Its horrible. I just don't think the Cowboys are a strong team. Denver seems to be one of those teams like the Jets that will pound you with the run, not make mistakes and kill you with defense. Teams are going to need to put the ball in Kyle Orton's hands if they want to beat them. The problem the Cowboys had, is that they can't stop teams through the air. It happened against the Giants and it happened here. They just have too many flaws. There's always next year Cowboy nation.
Fantasy Impact: If you have Tony Romo, I think that you might want to trade him to some Cowboys fan that is still hopeful about the season. There has to be one in your league right? Knowshon Moreno is going to be very good. He was very effective, getting 4.6 yards per carry against a tough Cowboys run defense. They should use him more than just 14 carries a game. Marshall had a nice game, but he remains a wild card in my opinion. Tashard Choice remains a solid option as long as Felix Jones is out. Eddie Royal has been non-existent this season and that must be awful for his owners. I really don't see the Broncos throwing enough to turn him around. I hope you had a backup plan for your number 3 receiver. Maybe Muhammed Massaquoi?
Rams/49ers
The Rams knocked off the Browns for worst team in football with this one. They literally gave the game away to the 49ers. There are college teams that could beat this Rams team, I truly believe that. They did nothing right. It was all about the Niners defense, which just completely shut down anything the Rams tried to do. Other than that, there wasn't much to say about this one.
Fantasy Impact: Vernon Davis. Sigh. I don't draft you, and you burn me. Of course. Doesn't this always happen? It's almost like karma right? I give up on a player I have loved for a few years and he starts being affective that year. Oh well, at least Tight end is insanely deep and its not a team killing decision. Crabtree signed this week, but I'm not jumping on that bandwagon. Rookie receivers are risky as it is, nevermind one who has missed this much time. I can't see him doing much of anything now that he is actually in uniform. I don't even know if he's any good! Davis is the only member of that passing game I would want to own.
Steelers/Chargers
So the Steelers are still pretty good. They are still the Super Bowl Champs and it looks like Troy Polamalu should be returning to practice this week. Rashard Mendenhall was the story here, as he finally delivered a huge game in place of Willie Parker. This is the back of the future for Pittsburgh and he showed why. Phillip Rivers was great, but he also had to throw it a lot because they couldn't move the ball against the Steelers run defense. Overall, both these teams are good, the Steelers are just a little better. Plus they were at home in a must win game. They came through like champions.
Fantasy Impact: As I mentioned, the story was Mendenhall. I think he just killed any fantasy value Willie Parker had left (which I thought was none anyway) and he should at least get a 50/50 split the rest of the way even when Parker is healthy. Ladanian Tomlinson is dead. This is my greatest triumph of the fantasy season so far. I did not want him on any of my teams, even when all the experts were calling him a steal at the end of the first round. I knew he was an old, injury prone FORMER star that people were overpaying because they thought he would have something to prove. But the fact is, it doesn't matter what you have to prove when your legs have that much mileage on them. He is fantasy dead. Sorry if you listened or thought he was bouncing back. He's going to kill your team, if he hasn't already.
Packers/Vikings
And this was the big one. A game I watched from start to finish as the Packers failed again and again to stop Jared Allen from sacking their quarterback. It really was the difference in the game. Not Brett Favre. Not Adrian Peterson, it was the pass rush from Minnesota getting to Rodgers. Conversely, the Minnesota offensive line gave Favre so much time even Jemarcus Russell could have made those throws. If you can't rush the passer, and you can't protect your quarterback, you can't win. Unfortunately this was the situation, especially with the Packers down to their third string tackle to stop Allen. They were at a serious disadvantage, plus the game was on the road. I still liked their ability to move the ball but a few turnovers and of course the sacks killed their chances. It shouldn't even have been as close as it was, which is why I still don't think the Vikings are that good. I think if you put that game in Lambeau, the score is reversed. These are two stadiums where home field really matters. I think that when they meet again, the Packers will turn it around and win rather easily. Brett Favre is still healthy and alive. Wait til he gets more games in him. Aaron Rodgers is the far better of the two right now, he just had so little protection. The Packers needed to send more blitzes to try and hit Favre a few times. All these things could turn the game. You watch when they meet again, I promise the Packers take that game. In this case, the better team didn't win. Their biggest weapon wasn't even effective against the Packers run defense, only amassing 55 yards. It was frustrating to watch a superior team lose a game like this. We'll see how it ends up though, the season is still young.
Fantasy Impact: Man that Aaron Rodgers is outstanding. The story here however was young Jermichael Finley, another tight end that you can go pick up if you are disappointed in yours, or you own Zach Miller. Awesome game from him and I expect more of the same the rest of the way.
That's about it. Phillies are up 1-0 in the series already. On their way to that World Series I tell ya! Ok maybe there's a long way to go, but I like what I saw so far. Power Rankings up soon! Stay tuned!
Ravens/Patriots
Wes Welker was back and Tom Brady loved it. He was targeted 10 times in this game and I have to say that makes a serious difference in this offense. They proved by beating the Ravens that they can still hang with anyone in this league. That is two wins in a row over quality teams coming off the loss to the Jets. Both of these teams will be fine moving forward.
Fantasy Impact: Welker did only have 48 yards but those in PPR leagues continue to love him, getting 6 catches on the day. Ray Rice continues to produce a ton of yards without the touchdowns, which has to be both rewarding and frustrating for his owners (and I own him in a ton of leagues so I know). He is so close to being a stud, but that pesky McGahee is in his way. Derrick Mason caught 7 passes on 11 targets including a touchdown and proved why he's not ready to leave the game just yet. You still want nothing to do with the New England backfield.
Buccaneers/Redskins
This is the type of game that makes me want to throw up. These teams are just terrible. Someone had to win and the Bucs proved why they are slightly worse. The only reason the Redskins have one win, let alone two is because they have had such an easy schedule. Neither team is worthy of a win, at least Tampa doesn't have any to show. Josh Johnson showed that he wasn't much better than Leftwich as their offense had a miserable time moving the ball. Campbell wasn't much better. Why am I still talking about this?
Fantasy Impact: Chris Cooley and Santana Moss are rewarding their owners. Antonio Bryant came back and got in the end zone, but really, anyone worth owning on these crappy teams is owned, so there was very little fantasy relevance.
Titans/Jaguars
I don't know what has happened to my Titans, but they stink this season. To get spanked by a mediocre Jacksonville team is unacceptable. They just can't stop anyone through the air. They have always been a defensive-minded team and that seems to be gone. I think its certainly time to give up on any playoff hopes they had and it really is a shame. They are actually moving the ball pretty well and the rookie Kenny Britt really looks sharp out there. Unfortunately this just isn't their year. Its not like its the Jaguars year either, but they were just better in this one.
Fantasy Impact: Like I said, Kenny Britt has been really good and should only get better as the season progresses. Nate Washington got into the end zone once again and he is also a definitely fantasy relevant receiver in Tennessee. They didn't have two fantasy ownable receivers all of last season. This is partly due to talent, and partly because they are behind in games and need to throw the ball a lot more. You better have added Mike Sims-Walker when I told you too. Seriously, he has been great. 11 targets when no other Jacksonville receiver had more than 5. He is THE guy.
Raiders/Texans
The Texans came through easily in this one as one game I actually got right. They kept me alive in my survivor pools and proved that its really easy to beat the Raiders. Like, really easy. Because they have a quarterback that should be in the CFL. Not to mention their best running back is going to miss 2-4 weeks and their best receiver, tight end Zach Miller is also hurt. They are a bad team fully healthy, they are appallingly bad when banged up. The Texans finally got Steve Slaton going (and they get a big thank you from his patient fantasy owners) for 2 touchdowns, one on the ground and one through the air. That is all they would need.
Fantasy Impact: The big impact comes from the injuries for the Raiders. With McFadden out, I like Michael Bush to get a boost in carries as I just don't trust Justin Fargas. Not that either will be great, but if you need a running back, go get Bush if he's available, which he might be. Miller's injury isn't as serious, but he will still probably miss some time. There are enough tight ends out there that you should be able to drop him no problem and get a replacement.
Bears/Lions
The Lions were able to hang with them for a half, but the superior team pulled away in the second, burying the hopes of a winning streak for Lions fans. They still have a ton of issues on defense, but they are still a young rebuilding team, what did we really expect from this one?
Fantasy Impact: Matthew Stafford was hurt but you probably didn't own him anyway. With Pittsburgh coming up I wouldn't rush out and grab Daunte Culpepper either. Gotta love the big game out of Matt Forte, but it was the Lions. still, a 10 yard per carry average is amazing against any team. 121 yards on 12 carries. He didn't need to do much more. Calvin Johnson went over 100 yards for the Lions and he is just an absolute beast catching 8 balls on 12 targets. Injured Kevin Smith had 2 tds, but only 30 yards. I'm sorry if you had him on the bench, like me, not knowing if he'd play or not. He should be good to go the rest of the way, but Pittsburgh is a daunting task for him to run against. I'd keep him out.
Bengals/Browns
What do you know, the Browns ALMOST pulled off a win! Almost. This may have been their best chance too. Or maybe not, they might be a better team with Derek Anderson at the helm. Its too early to tell. They traded away Braylon Edwards to the Jets so they got rid of one cancer. They bring in Chanci Stuckey who doesn't have the upside of Edwards, but also shouldn't cause that many problems. That said, they are still very bad and may have let their one win slip in OT. The Bengals should be embarrassed, but should be able to regroup with the win. I still think they are a legitimate team, believe it or not.
Fantasy Impact: With the loss of Edwards, Muhammed Massaquoi gets a huge boost in value, especially coming off an 8 catch, 148 yard performance. He is the wide receiver add of the week. Go get him while you still can! Jerome Harrison had a big game as well. I was wrong on that situation, but so were a lot of experts. We all expected James Davis to be the guy who replaced Jamal Lewis in the inevitable injury. Well we were wrong, Harrison is the guy and he's looked great doing it. Ochocinco got in the end zone twice on only 3 catches. At least he really made them count!
Colts/Seahawks
Peyton Manning is the MVP of the league right now and its not close. He has led this Colts team back to the top of the AFC. I know it was a Seneca Wallace led Seahawks team but Peyton shredded them. He is going to shred Tennessee next weekend as well in a game I am dreading. Even with the loss of number two receiver Anthony Gonzalez that offense hasn't slowed a bit. They could be the best team in football. Even though Wallace wasn't that bad, the Seahawks still need their leader back in Hasselbeck. They are hoping for a return this week.
Fantasy Impact: TJ Houshmandzadeh led the offense for Seattle and that is very good for his owners after he got off to a relatively slow start. The 103 yard day makes me feel confident that no matter who is throwing him the ball will learn that they need to get it to him. He is by far the best they have. Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie both had useful days for deep league managers and I think both should be owned before next week. Both Indy running backs reached the end zone, and continue to split the carries pretty evenly.
Giants/Chiefs
You know by now how I feel about the Giants. Until they beat a legitimate team, I am not willing to say that they are any good. The teams they have beaten have a combined record of 4-12. The 4 wins that those teams have gotten came from Tampa Bay twice, The Rams and The Carolina Panthers, all teams that are absolutely horrible and have a combined record of 0-12. So basically, the Giants are 4-0 against the easiest schedule in football. Why is everyone crowning them? They get 1-3 Oakland this week and will move to 5-0. We have an undefeated team that is completely mediocre and everyone wants to put them in the top 3 of the NFL. No way! I can't wait to see how they do against the Saints, because I predict devastation. Oh yeah, and the Chiefs are bad.
Fantasy Impact: I said it last week, but wasn't really certain. This is the week where i totally believe it: LJ is done, washed up, not even worthy of a bench spot. Drop him now. He's just bad. Remember when there was a time where you might have attempted to trick a lesser manager into trading for the wrong Steve Smith, thinking that they were getting the one who plays for Carolina but instead it was the one on the Giants? Well that Steve Smith has been a force to be reckoned with this season, far surpassing the production of the more popular Smith. I think its safe to say that he is the number one go to guy for Eli and his production will remain high for the year, and will most likely remain ahead of Carolina's Steve. What were the odds of that before the season? 10,000 to 1?
Jets/Saints
The Saints proved what a complete team they are by humiliating Mark Sanchez for 3 interceptions and only 138 yards. Most of the offense came from the defense, as the Jets also did a good job slowing down Drew Brees. The Jets live and die by preventing the other team from scoring and not making mistakes on offense. The Saints forced those mistakes, so they came out clearly on top. Teams need to force Mark Sanchez to try and beat them, because although his team is 3-1, he is not the reason why. I still think the Saints are the best team in football.
Fantasy Impact: Braylon Edwards comes to the Jets next week and adds a weapon for Sanchez. That is, if you think Edwards is a weapon. His value should be even worse here than it was in Cleveland. You never should have drafted him. He was number one on my "don't touch" list this season. Pierre Thomas sure is dangerous, proving he can do it through the ground or the air against a very good defense. I think he'll be a first round pick next season if he stays healthy.
Bills/Dolphins
So this was a matchup of two bad teams so I'm not going to spend a lot of time on it. Trent Edwards is a bad quarterback and the Bills don't seem to realize this. They are going nowhere if they think he is their QB of the future. Chad Henne was very efficient for the Dolphins and will probably have the job, but heir offense is all about the run. The Bills couldn't stop it, that's why they lost.
Fantasy Impact: If you have anything to do with the passing games for either of these teams, you made a mistake. TO, Lee Evans, Ted Ginn Jr, and both quarterbacks all stink, (probably just because the QB's stink, the WRs are affected negatively). If you have the running games, you may have hit the jackpot. Both teams have 2 fantasy relevant running backs that should be owned and usually started in all leagues.
Cowboys/Broncos
I learned one thing from this game and its pretty major: the Dallas Cowboys are not very good. I know the Broncos are 4-0 and have played very good defense, but have they really played a good team? I don't think they have. The Cowboys have proven to be mediocre at best, and they can't win a big game. Tony Romo just might not be very good. His receiving corps hasn't been good this season with the absence of Terrell Owens. Roy Williams is not a strong number one receiver and the team should be running the ball a lot more. Wade Phillips is a terrible coach. You can not tell me that Romo throwing 42 times while only running the ball 25 times is smart for this team. Its horrible. I just don't think the Cowboys are a strong team. Denver seems to be one of those teams like the Jets that will pound you with the run, not make mistakes and kill you with defense. Teams are going to need to put the ball in Kyle Orton's hands if they want to beat them. The problem the Cowboys had, is that they can't stop teams through the air. It happened against the Giants and it happened here. They just have too many flaws. There's always next year Cowboy nation.
Fantasy Impact: If you have Tony Romo, I think that you might want to trade him to some Cowboys fan that is still hopeful about the season. There has to be one in your league right? Knowshon Moreno is going to be very good. He was very effective, getting 4.6 yards per carry against a tough Cowboys run defense. They should use him more than just 14 carries a game. Marshall had a nice game, but he remains a wild card in my opinion. Tashard Choice remains a solid option as long as Felix Jones is out. Eddie Royal has been non-existent this season and that must be awful for his owners. I really don't see the Broncos throwing enough to turn him around. I hope you had a backup plan for your number 3 receiver. Maybe Muhammed Massaquoi?
Rams/49ers
The Rams knocked off the Browns for worst team in football with this one. They literally gave the game away to the 49ers. There are college teams that could beat this Rams team, I truly believe that. They did nothing right. It was all about the Niners defense, which just completely shut down anything the Rams tried to do. Other than that, there wasn't much to say about this one.
Fantasy Impact: Vernon Davis. Sigh. I don't draft you, and you burn me. Of course. Doesn't this always happen? It's almost like karma right? I give up on a player I have loved for a few years and he starts being affective that year. Oh well, at least Tight end is insanely deep and its not a team killing decision. Crabtree signed this week, but I'm not jumping on that bandwagon. Rookie receivers are risky as it is, nevermind one who has missed this much time. I can't see him doing much of anything now that he is actually in uniform. I don't even know if he's any good! Davis is the only member of that passing game I would want to own.
Steelers/Chargers
So the Steelers are still pretty good. They are still the Super Bowl Champs and it looks like Troy Polamalu should be returning to practice this week. Rashard Mendenhall was the story here, as he finally delivered a huge game in place of Willie Parker. This is the back of the future for Pittsburgh and he showed why. Phillip Rivers was great, but he also had to throw it a lot because they couldn't move the ball against the Steelers run defense. Overall, both these teams are good, the Steelers are just a little better. Plus they were at home in a must win game. They came through like champions.
Fantasy Impact: As I mentioned, the story was Mendenhall. I think he just killed any fantasy value Willie Parker had left (which I thought was none anyway) and he should at least get a 50/50 split the rest of the way even when Parker is healthy. Ladanian Tomlinson is dead. This is my greatest triumph of the fantasy season so far. I did not want him on any of my teams, even when all the experts were calling him a steal at the end of the first round. I knew he was an old, injury prone FORMER star that people were overpaying because they thought he would have something to prove. But the fact is, it doesn't matter what you have to prove when your legs have that much mileage on them. He is fantasy dead. Sorry if you listened or thought he was bouncing back. He's going to kill your team, if he hasn't already.
Packers/Vikings
And this was the big one. A game I watched from start to finish as the Packers failed again and again to stop Jared Allen from sacking their quarterback. It really was the difference in the game. Not Brett Favre. Not Adrian Peterson, it was the pass rush from Minnesota getting to Rodgers. Conversely, the Minnesota offensive line gave Favre so much time even Jemarcus Russell could have made those throws. If you can't rush the passer, and you can't protect your quarterback, you can't win. Unfortunately this was the situation, especially with the Packers down to their third string tackle to stop Allen. They were at a serious disadvantage, plus the game was on the road. I still liked their ability to move the ball but a few turnovers and of course the sacks killed their chances. It shouldn't even have been as close as it was, which is why I still don't think the Vikings are that good. I think if you put that game in Lambeau, the score is reversed. These are two stadiums where home field really matters. I think that when they meet again, the Packers will turn it around and win rather easily. Brett Favre is still healthy and alive. Wait til he gets more games in him. Aaron Rodgers is the far better of the two right now, he just had so little protection. The Packers needed to send more blitzes to try and hit Favre a few times. All these things could turn the game. You watch when they meet again, I promise the Packers take that game. In this case, the better team didn't win. Their biggest weapon wasn't even effective against the Packers run defense, only amassing 55 yards. It was frustrating to watch a superior team lose a game like this. We'll see how it ends up though, the season is still young.
Fantasy Impact: Man that Aaron Rodgers is outstanding. The story here however was young Jermichael Finley, another tight end that you can go pick up if you are disappointed in yours, or you own Zach Miller. Awesome game from him and I expect more of the same the rest of the way.
That's about it. Phillies are up 1-0 in the series already. On their way to that World Series I tell ya! Ok maybe there's a long way to go, but I like what I saw so far. Power Rankings up soon! Stay tuned!
MLB Playoff Preview
Baseball's post season is finally upon us! Maybe I can redeem my preseason picks here, by picking who will win out of the teams that actually got there.
Phillies vs Rockies
I have to take the defending champs in this one. They hold a strong advantage in pitching with Lee, Hamels and J.A. Happ. I think this could be a sweep. There is too much going for the Phillies. I do like this Rockies team, but I can't see them keeping Chase Utley and Ryan Howard at bay.
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers have fallen apart at the end of this season and they just won't be a match for the mighty Cardinals hurlers. The Dodgers might also get swept here. Carpenter and Wainwright have been unhittable. They are the biggest strength of any playoff team. The Dodgers just aren't ready to go very far in this year's playoffs.
Yankees vs. Twins
I know a lot of people are predicting a sweep after the Twins could barely scrape by in an outstanding extra innings game last night against the Tigers. I'm not so sure however. I think the Twins will give them a series. They have so much momentum in their favor and the Yankees might get caught napping. It will all depend on C.C Sabathia. He hasn't had the best playoff track record and he will need to pitch two strong games for the Yankees to win this series. I think the Yankees take it in 5.
Red Sox vs. Angels
The Red Sox have had the Angels number. Anaheim can not seem to beat them in the post season. However, that is not why I am picking the Red Sox to win this series. That will come from the pitching of Jon Lester and Josh Beckett. They are the two best pitchers in this series, and the Sox will be tough to beat with them. Combine that with a great bullpen and just about even offenses, the Sox shouldn't struggle to eliminate the Angels once again.
NLCS
Phillies vs. Cardinals
This would be a hell of a series. I really do hope it happens because I would be riveted for every single game. I see it going 7 with the Phillies taking it and going back to the world series. I just think the bats are a little better and the pitching will hang. But it really could be either team. I do believe that whichever team wins this series is going to be very tough to beat in the World Series.
ALCS
Yankees vs. Red Sox
And here we go again. Another heart attack series for the Sox and the Yanks. They always play each other tough when everything is on the line, and we all know what happened in 2004, but here, as much as I hate to say it, I think the Yankees are poised to knock them off. The bats are too strong. I would love to see the Red Sox beat them again, but it will be really difficult, they will need Clay Buchholz and Daisuke Matsuzaka to come through and I don't know how well they will do. The key factor here is home field advantage, as the Sox have just not done well in Yankee Stadium this season. If they played 4 in Fenway, I'd give them the edge, but I have to move the Yankee Juggernaut on to face the Phillies.
World Series
Phillies vs. Yankees
I think the Phillies have what it takes to repeat. They are the most complete team on both offense and pitching. I know the bullpen has struggled at the back end but I just can't see that being the deciding factor. Cole Hamels is going to prove what a big game pitcher he is and the Phillies will go back to back. The only team I can see knocking them off is the Cardinals, and like I mentioned, either one of those teams could win the World Series. Look for another championship from the National League, no matter how bad they are as a whole, the teams at the top can really play.
Phillies vs Rockies
I have to take the defending champs in this one. They hold a strong advantage in pitching with Lee, Hamels and J.A. Happ. I think this could be a sweep. There is too much going for the Phillies. I do like this Rockies team, but I can't see them keeping Chase Utley and Ryan Howard at bay.
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers have fallen apart at the end of this season and they just won't be a match for the mighty Cardinals hurlers. The Dodgers might also get swept here. Carpenter and Wainwright have been unhittable. They are the biggest strength of any playoff team. The Dodgers just aren't ready to go very far in this year's playoffs.
Yankees vs. Twins
I know a lot of people are predicting a sweep after the Twins could barely scrape by in an outstanding extra innings game last night against the Tigers. I'm not so sure however. I think the Twins will give them a series. They have so much momentum in their favor and the Yankees might get caught napping. It will all depend on C.C Sabathia. He hasn't had the best playoff track record and he will need to pitch two strong games for the Yankees to win this series. I think the Yankees take it in 5.
Red Sox vs. Angels
The Red Sox have had the Angels number. Anaheim can not seem to beat them in the post season. However, that is not why I am picking the Red Sox to win this series. That will come from the pitching of Jon Lester and Josh Beckett. They are the two best pitchers in this series, and the Sox will be tough to beat with them. Combine that with a great bullpen and just about even offenses, the Sox shouldn't struggle to eliminate the Angels once again.
NLCS
Phillies vs. Cardinals
This would be a hell of a series. I really do hope it happens because I would be riveted for every single game. I see it going 7 with the Phillies taking it and going back to the world series. I just think the bats are a little better and the pitching will hang. But it really could be either team. I do believe that whichever team wins this series is going to be very tough to beat in the World Series.
ALCS
Yankees vs. Red Sox
And here we go again. Another heart attack series for the Sox and the Yanks. They always play each other tough when everything is on the line, and we all know what happened in 2004, but here, as much as I hate to say it, I think the Yankees are poised to knock them off. The bats are too strong. I would love to see the Red Sox beat them again, but it will be really difficult, they will need Clay Buchholz and Daisuke Matsuzaka to come through and I don't know how well they will do. The key factor here is home field advantage, as the Sox have just not done well in Yankee Stadium this season. If they played 4 in Fenway, I'd give them the edge, but I have to move the Yankee Juggernaut on to face the Phillies.
World Series
Phillies vs. Yankees
I think the Phillies have what it takes to repeat. They are the most complete team on both offense and pitching. I know the bullpen has struggled at the back end but I just can't see that being the deciding factor. Cole Hamels is going to prove what a big game pitcher he is and the Phillies will go back to back. The only team I can see knocking them off is the Cardinals, and like I mentioned, either one of those teams could win the World Series. Look for another championship from the National League, no matter how bad they are as a whole, the teams at the top can really play.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Week 4 Picks
Going to be gone again, so here's this week's picks:
Home Team in CAPS
Detroit (+10) over CHICAGO
Cincinnati (-5.5) over CLEVELAND
INDIANAPOLIS (-10.5) over Seattle
New York Giants (-8.5) over KANSAS CITY
WASHINGTON (-7) over Tampa Bay
HOUSTON (-9.5) over Oakland
Buffalo (-2) over MIAMI
NEW ORLEANS(-7) over New York Jets
Dallas (-3) over DENVER
St. Louis (+9.5) over SAN FRANSISCO
San Diego (+6.5) over PITTSBURGH
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Green Bay (+3.5) over MINNESOTA
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Tennessee (-3) over JACKSONVILLE
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Baltimore (+2) over NEW ENGLAND
Last Week: 11-5
Overall: 30-18
Lock picks: 6-3
Home Team in CAPS
Detroit (+10) over CHICAGO
Cincinnati (-5.5) over CLEVELAND
INDIANAPOLIS (-10.5) over Seattle
New York Giants (-8.5) over KANSAS CITY
WASHINGTON (-7) over Tampa Bay
HOUSTON (-9.5) over Oakland
Buffalo (-2) over MIAMI
NEW ORLEANS(-7) over New York Jets
Dallas (-3) over DENVER
St. Louis (+9.5) over SAN FRANSISCO
San Diego (+6.5) over PITTSBURGH
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Green Bay (+3.5) over MINNESOTA
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Tennessee (-3) over JACKSONVILLE
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Baltimore (+2) over NEW ENGLAND
Last Week: 11-5
Overall: 30-18
Lock picks: 6-3
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