Went 2-1 on thanksgiving, let's see how I do for the rest of week 12 shall we?
Tampa Bay (+12.5) over ATLANTA
Miami (-3.5) over BUFFALO
CINCINNATI (-14) over Cleveland
Seattle (-3) over ST. LOUIS
Carolina (+3) over NEW YORK JETS
PHILADELPHIA (-9) over Washington
Indianapolis (-3.5) over HOUSTON
Kansas City (+13.5) over SAN DIEGO
TENNESSEE (-3) over Arizona
New England (+3) over New Orleans
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
MINNESOTA (-10.5) over Chicago
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
BALTIMORE (pick) over Pittsburgh
Lock of the Week
Jacksonville (+3) over SAN FRANSISCO
Last Week: 9-7
Overall: 88-71-1
Lock Picks: 18-15
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanksgiving Day NFL Picks
Green Bay (-11) over DETROIT
The Packers should crush the Lions like they did the first time around, even with Stafford and Calvin Johnson playing.
Oakland (+13.5) over DALLAS
I think this one will be a close game. Dallas has had an awful offense the past few weeks, Miles Austin shouldn't be able to do much against Asumugha and the Raiders just beat the Bengals. Will I take 13.5? Of course I will!
DENVER (+6.5) over New York Giants
I expect the Broncos to win straight up. The Giants aren't very good, and I've said it all along. they haven't been playong well. Now that said, the Broncos have been terrible lately. I just think with a healthier Kyle Orton, at home on Thanksgiving, they should be able to get back on track.
The Packers should crush the Lions like they did the first time around, even with Stafford and Calvin Johnson playing.
Oakland (+13.5) over DALLAS
I think this one will be a close game. Dallas has had an awful offense the past few weeks, Miles Austin shouldn't be able to do much against Asumugha and the Raiders just beat the Bengals. Will I take 13.5? Of course I will!
DENVER (+6.5) over New York Giants
I expect the Broncos to win straight up. The Giants aren't very good, and I've said it all along. they haven't been playong well. Now that said, the Broncos have been terrible lately. I just think with a healthier Kyle Orton, at home on Thanksgiving, they should be able to get back on track.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
NFL Power Rankings: Week 12
I'm going with a recap/power rankings hybrid this week. I'll recap why teams are moving up or down, but I won't waste your time with things that didn't matter. Here we go:
The Elite:
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Minnesota Vikings
This is a huge change from last week. The top 3 remain the same, but the big news came from Cincinnati and Pittsburgh. They lost to the Raiders and Chiefs, respectively. Not just lost against the spread, but lost the game out-right! I can't honestly say they are among the Elite teams anymore. You just can't lose to teams like that. The loss of Palamalu is just absolutely terrible for Pittsburgh. They are a completely different defense without him. Cincinnati was without Cedric Benson but still, you can't lose to the Raiders.
The other developement is that I can no longer keep Minnesota out of this group. Brett Favre continues to defy his age and track record. He's not throwing interceptions! Its crazy. They are beating the teams they should beat. They haven't laid an egg like the Steelers and Bengals just did. They belong here, behind the big 3.
The Contenders:
5. San Diego Chargers
6. Cincinnati Bengals
7. Arizona Cardinals
8. Dallas Cowboys
9. Green Bay Packers
10. Pittsburgh Steelers
11. Philadelphia Eagles
12. Baltimore Ravens
13. Tennessee Titans
Lots of movers here, the biggest being the aforementioned Steelers. I think they might be done depending on when Palamalu comes back. Its just such a crushing blow to this team. The Chargers move up a couple slots with their blow out of Denver. They are the team closest to moving into the Elite. They are just clicking right now at the right time. They talented enough to win a Super Bowl, lets see if they can avoid letting their coach tank them. The other important developement: Those Tennessee Titans, at 4-6, are contenders. Would you want to play this team right now? I know I wouldn't! Vince Young is playing fantastic and he's having fun, which is so important and great to see. Chris Johnson is the best running back in football right now. He could go for 2000 yards this season. It was once crazy, but they could legitimately go 10-6. They are just really good and they are fired up. They have total "nobody believed in us" status, they control the ball, and Vince is playing his game that is so hard to defend when he gets out of the pocket. Watch out, they are jumping every week.
The Texans drop out of the contenders and into the mid pack with their loss. The other teams move up and down based on their performance this week, but they are all generally the same as they were and still belong here.
The Mid Pack:
14. Miami Dolphins
15. Atlanta Falcons
16. Jacksonville Jaguars
17. Houston Texans
18. New York Giants
19. Denver Broncos
20. Carolina Panthers
21. San Fransisco 49ers
22. Chicago Bears
23. New York Jets
These teams pretty much lived up to their name. They were very middle of the road. Only two teams jumped 3 spots in this pack, the Giants and the Jaguars. I still don't like either of them, as they didn't look impressive and don't think either is close to being a contender, but they did actually win their games. I can't say that about anyone else in this list other than the best team in this group, Miami. Just a bunch of mediocre 4-6 to 6-4 squads. The Mid-Pack indeed.
The Awful:
24. Washington Redskins
25. Kansas City Chiefs
26. Oakland Raiders
27. Buffalo Bills
28. Seattle Seahawks
29. St. Louis Rams
30. Detroit Lions
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. Cleveland Browns
Washington almost beat Dallas, so they move up to the top of this list. Kansas City beat the Steelers, so they are right behind. That is also why Oakland moves up to 26 and they might actually be a mid-pack team with Bruce Gradkowski. Only time will tell. The rest remain in the dregs, with no hope of escaping even into the mediocre. Buffalo had a shot at beating Jacksonville, but let it slip away. Just like any awful team should.
That's it for me this week. If you have the chance to go see the Blind Side, definitely check it out. It was fantastic. Have a very happy Thanksgiving everybody!
The Elite:
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Minnesota Vikings
This is a huge change from last week. The top 3 remain the same, but the big news came from Cincinnati and Pittsburgh. They lost to the Raiders and Chiefs, respectively. Not just lost against the spread, but lost the game out-right! I can't honestly say they are among the Elite teams anymore. You just can't lose to teams like that. The loss of Palamalu is just absolutely terrible for Pittsburgh. They are a completely different defense without him. Cincinnati was without Cedric Benson but still, you can't lose to the Raiders.
The other developement is that I can no longer keep Minnesota out of this group. Brett Favre continues to defy his age and track record. He's not throwing interceptions! Its crazy. They are beating the teams they should beat. They haven't laid an egg like the Steelers and Bengals just did. They belong here, behind the big 3.
The Contenders:
5. San Diego Chargers
6. Cincinnati Bengals
7. Arizona Cardinals
8. Dallas Cowboys
9. Green Bay Packers
10. Pittsburgh Steelers
11. Philadelphia Eagles
12. Baltimore Ravens
13. Tennessee Titans
Lots of movers here, the biggest being the aforementioned Steelers. I think they might be done depending on when Palamalu comes back. Its just such a crushing blow to this team. The Chargers move up a couple slots with their blow out of Denver. They are the team closest to moving into the Elite. They are just clicking right now at the right time. They talented enough to win a Super Bowl, lets see if they can avoid letting their coach tank them. The other important developement: Those Tennessee Titans, at 4-6, are contenders. Would you want to play this team right now? I know I wouldn't! Vince Young is playing fantastic and he's having fun, which is so important and great to see. Chris Johnson is the best running back in football right now. He could go for 2000 yards this season. It was once crazy, but they could legitimately go 10-6. They are just really good and they are fired up. They have total "nobody believed in us" status, they control the ball, and Vince is playing his game that is so hard to defend when he gets out of the pocket. Watch out, they are jumping every week.
The Texans drop out of the contenders and into the mid pack with their loss. The other teams move up and down based on their performance this week, but they are all generally the same as they were and still belong here.
The Mid Pack:
14. Miami Dolphins
15. Atlanta Falcons
16. Jacksonville Jaguars
17. Houston Texans
18. New York Giants
19. Denver Broncos
20. Carolina Panthers
21. San Fransisco 49ers
22. Chicago Bears
23. New York Jets
These teams pretty much lived up to their name. They were very middle of the road. Only two teams jumped 3 spots in this pack, the Giants and the Jaguars. I still don't like either of them, as they didn't look impressive and don't think either is close to being a contender, but they did actually win their games. I can't say that about anyone else in this list other than the best team in this group, Miami. Just a bunch of mediocre 4-6 to 6-4 squads. The Mid-Pack indeed.
The Awful:
24. Washington Redskins
25. Kansas City Chiefs
26. Oakland Raiders
27. Buffalo Bills
28. Seattle Seahawks
29. St. Louis Rams
30. Detroit Lions
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
32. Cleveland Browns
Washington almost beat Dallas, so they move up to the top of this list. Kansas City beat the Steelers, so they are right behind. That is also why Oakland moves up to 26 and they might actually be a mid-pack team with Bruce Gradkowski. Only time will tell. The rest remain in the dregs, with no hope of escaping even into the mediocre. Buffalo had a shot at beating Jacksonville, but let it slip away. Just like any awful team should.
That's it for me this week. If you have the chance to go see the Blind Side, definitely check it out. It was fantastic. Have a very happy Thanksgiving everybody!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
NFL Picks: Week 11
CAROLINA (-3) over Miami
DALLAS (-11) over Washington
DETROIT (-3.5) over Clevelenad
GREEN BAY (-6.5) over San Fransisco
KANSAS CITY (+10) over Pittsburgh
MINESOTA (-10.5) over Seattle
Atlanta (+6.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
New Orleans (-11.5) over TAMPA BAY
Buffalo (+9) over JACKSONVILLE
BALTIMORE (+1) over Indianapolis
Cincinatti (-9.5) over OAKLAND
NEW ENGLAND (-10.5) over New York Jets
Tennessee (+4.5) over HOUSTON
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Philadelphia (-3) over CHICAGO
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
San Diego (-2.5) over DENVER
Lock of the Week
Arizona (-9) over ST. LOUIS
Last week: 8-7
Overall: 79-64-1
Lock Picks: 16-14
DALLAS (-11) over Washington
DETROIT (-3.5) over Clevelenad
GREEN BAY (-6.5) over San Fransisco
KANSAS CITY (+10) over Pittsburgh
MINESOTA (-10.5) over Seattle
Atlanta (+6.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
New Orleans (-11.5) over TAMPA BAY
Buffalo (+9) over JACKSONVILLE
BALTIMORE (+1) over Indianapolis
Cincinatti (-9.5) over OAKLAND
NEW ENGLAND (-10.5) over New York Jets
Tennessee (+4.5) over HOUSTON
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Philadelphia (-3) over CHICAGO
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
San Diego (-2.5) over DENVER
Lock of the Week
Arizona (-9) over ST. LOUIS
Last week: 8-7
Overall: 79-64-1
Lock Picks: 16-14
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
NFL Power Rankings: Week 11
I've noticed that now that we have played ten weeks of football, the teams are starting to get entrenched into their own tiers. Some fall, some rise, but for the most part the tiers stay the same. So for this list, I'm going to separate them based on the tiers I think they fall into:
The Elite: These are the Super Bowl favorites. The Saints remain on top, but only just. Any of these teams could win the Super Bowl and I wouldn't at all be shocked.
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Cincinnati Bengals
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Contenders: These teams also have a shot of making a deep run in the playoffs, but they also have some fatal flaws that could prevent them from getting there.
6. Minnesota Vikings
7. San Diego Chargers
8. Arizona Cardinals
9. Dallas Cowboys
10. Baltimore Ravens
11. Green Bay Packers
12. Houston Texans
13. Philadelphia Eagles
The Mid-pack: These are the teams that are mired in mediocrity. The teams we can't figure out. The teams that play awesome one week, then terrible the next. The teams that fail to live up to their full potential. They might have an outside shot at the playoffs, but will more than likely come up short. Teams that make you go "meh."
14. Atlanta Falcons
15. Miami Dolphins
16. Tennessee Titans
17. Denver Broncos
18. Carolina Panthers
19. Jacksonville Jaguars
20. San Francisco 49ers
21. New York Giants
22. New York Jets
23. Chicago Bears
The Awful: These are the pitiful, hopeless, wait til next year, hope we get a good draft pick, tank the season dregs of the NFL. They are all varying levels of bad, but none of them are going anywhere. Better luck next year!
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Seattle Seahawks
26. Washington Redskins
27. Kansas City Chiefs
28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
29. Oakland Raiders
30. St. Louis Rams
31. Detroit Lions
32. Cleveland Browns
I'm going to go with the tiers for the remainder of the season so I hope you like them!
The Elite: These are the Super Bowl favorites. The Saints remain on top, but only just. Any of these teams could win the Super Bowl and I wouldn't at all be shocked.
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Cincinnati Bengals
5. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Contenders: These teams also have a shot of making a deep run in the playoffs, but they also have some fatal flaws that could prevent them from getting there.
6. Minnesota Vikings
7. San Diego Chargers
8. Arizona Cardinals
9. Dallas Cowboys
10. Baltimore Ravens
11. Green Bay Packers
12. Houston Texans
13. Philadelphia Eagles
The Mid-pack: These are the teams that are mired in mediocrity. The teams we can't figure out. The teams that play awesome one week, then terrible the next. The teams that fail to live up to their full potential. They might have an outside shot at the playoffs, but will more than likely come up short. Teams that make you go "meh."
14. Atlanta Falcons
15. Miami Dolphins
16. Tennessee Titans
17. Denver Broncos
18. Carolina Panthers
19. Jacksonville Jaguars
20. San Francisco 49ers
21. New York Giants
22. New York Jets
23. Chicago Bears
The Awful: These are the pitiful, hopeless, wait til next year, hope we get a good draft pick, tank the season dregs of the NFL. They are all varying levels of bad, but none of them are going anywhere. Better luck next year!
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Seattle Seahawks
26. Washington Redskins
27. Kansas City Chiefs
28. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
29. Oakland Raiders
30. St. Louis Rams
31. Detroit Lions
32. Cleveland Browns
I'm going to go with the tiers for the remainder of the season so I hope you like them!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
So there was this 4th and 2... you may have heard about it
Patriots/Colts: There is no other place to start. It was the game of the week, and to say it lived up to the hype is a complete understatement. A game in which the Patriots thoroughly dominated for 3 quarters, then completely lost control and gave the game over to Peyton Manning, who led a legendary comeback.
But you don't care about that.
Everyone and their mother is talking about "The Call." The call made by sure-fire Hall of Fame coach Bill Belichick. The call that was indefensibly, incomprehensibly, undeniably D-U-M-B.
Now I know, there have been lots of pundits out there that want to tell me that the statistics show that the Patriots had a statistically better chance at going for it and converting, than stoping the Colts final drive. But this game is not played based on statistics. If you want to follow that theory, the Patriots shouldn't employ a punter. They should go for the attempt every single time. If there is one time in the game where you should not attempt to go for it on 4th down (and I am a huge proponent of coaches going for it more often) this was it. People like to throw around the terms "playing to win" and "playing not to lose." Well guess what? The definition of win is "to not lose". That is an argument over semantics and its frankly just stupid. What Belichick did here was playing "to decide the game his way." He wanted to decide the game on one play. They make it, they win, they don't make it, they lose. That is what happens. If Belichick didn't believe his team could stop Manning from 70 yards out, he sure didn't think they could stop him from 28. So they don't make it, they lose.
I just can't see how a coach can have so little confidence in his defense. Granted Peyton Manning is lethal inside of two minutes coming from behind, but he was not having his best game. He threw two brutal interceptions earlier in the game. The Patriots had stopped him on several occasions during the game. The last drive very well could have been ended early if the Colts didn't get a very questionable pass interference call in their favor for a 30+ yard gain. Peyton Manning is not infallible. You have to give your defense the chance to Do Their Jobs.
So the decision was made, Belichick wanted to be bold. He went for it and failed. Regardless of whether the correct spot was made or not (if they hadn't used their time outs so poorly, they would have been able to challenge, improperly using time outs early in the second half continues to bite teams in the ass, pardon the language) and maybe get the call overturned. But they had no time outs and the Colts had the ball. Belichick obviously had no faith in his defense, so why wouldn't he just tell them to let them score? Just let them go. Don't play defense. Let them score on one play, put the ball back in the hands of your offense with at least 1:30 left in the game. That is the only move that makes sense with the logic he used in going for it on 4th and 2.
But they didn't do that. They let the Colts chew up the clock and score the game winning touchdown. They had no chance for a comeback. This game is all on Belichick. I know he is a terrific coach. He is a hall of famer. But on this night, his hubris got the best of him, and it cost his team a win.
And so we move on...
Bears/49ers: This was the Thursday game, a game the Bears should have won. Poor play calling and Jay Cutler thinking that the Bears changed their team colors for most of the game doomed them. It was an all around ugly game and I kinda wish I didn't even watch it. It was pitiful, these are bad teams.
Bills/Titans: Roll on Titans! The fightin' Chris Johnson's are 3-0 under Vince Young. Johnson led the team in rushing and receiving, and just dominated this game. Give credit to the defense of Tennessee though, they are looking leaps and bounds ahead of what they were 3 weeks ago. Two interception touchdowns turned this game into a blow out. The new look Titans get a real test in Houston on Monday Night Football this week. I'll be watching intently.
Fantasy Alert: If your league dropped Nate Washington, you may want to go get him. And you might want to start thinking about playing Vince Young. He's been playing really well lately. Chris Johnson takes his place as the number one back in fantasy, at least for now.
Saints/Rams: This game proved you can beat the Saints. There is no reason that they shouldn't have dominated this game. They can't get lazy, this is the NFL. I hope their coaches stress this in pratice this week or they may be in for a fall that their talent level doesn't deserve.
Fantasy Alert: Man, that Saints backfield sure is tricky. I love Pierre Thomas, but Reggie Bush stole the show in this one. I wouldn't want to be an owner of any one of them. They are too all or nothing.
Dolphins/Buccaneers: The Bucs had this one in hand, but the Dolphins are the better team, and they gutted it out at the end. Just another one of those games that bad teams always lose, even if they deserve to win.
Fantasy Alert: Ronnie Brown could be missing some serious time. You need to find a replacement now, and if you didn't already have Ricky Williams, I doubt you'll be able to add him now. Running back injuries were the theme of the week, and guys like Forsett from Seattle, Snelling from Atlanta and Scott from Cincinnati all could see some serious time in the coming weeks.
Vikings/Lions: Nothing special, better team won. Moving on.
Jaguars/Jets: Here is a game where a coach made a controversial call that worked out. He had Maurice Jones-Drew take a knee at the one yard line instead of scoring a sure touchdown, as his fantasy owners cringed. This was so the Jaguars could kill the clock and kick an easy field goal as time expires. Many have argued that you need to take the points and play defense, but why give the ball back to the other team when you don't have to? They only needed a field goal to win. Basically it comes down to this:
You have two choices to win a game, which one would you pick, all you have to do is execute and you win:
Option A) The other team has the ball and you need to stop them from having a touchdown scoring drive
or
Option B) Kick an extra point
Which of these options has a higher success rate? I'll take kicking the extra point any day. Good job Jack Del Rio, and kudos to MJD for apologizing to his fantasy owners in his press conference.
Bengals/Steelers: This Bengals team was for real last week, but now they finally get credit for it. Good for them. I am putting them in the group of elite teams, and they are doing it with defense, who'd have thought?
Fantasy Alert: Cedric Benson was one of the running backs to leave the game with injury. Bernard Scott filled in nicely, but the team went out and signed Larry Johnson anyway. That isn't going to work, but it looks like Benson should be back next week anyway. Monitor the situation.
Broncos/Redskins: Ok, I could understand the first two losses, but the Redskins? Broncos you are killing your supporters! This is the anti-Titans. Started exceptionally hot and then colled off significantly. The schedule is really easy, but they lost to the Redskins! How can you trust them anymore?
Fantasy Alert: Brandon Marshall was on pace for about 100 fantasy points after one quarter, but then he stopped producing. This was due in large part to Kyle Orton getting hurt and Chris Simms stinking up the field. with no Orton, this team is in big trouble. That's right up there with "cedric Benson is a top ten fantasy back" on my list of things I'd never thought I would say. What a season.
Falcons/Panthers: This is what happens when you lose your outstanding running back and your young quarterback isn't as good as you may have thought. You lose to the Carolina Panthers. They will be amongst the biggest movers in this weeks power rankings, as will the Falcons, in the opposite direction. Turner is expected to miss 4-6 weeks, that spells doom on their season.
Fantasy Alert: Jason Snelling filled in for Turner, and if you lost Turner, he is the guy to go get. Like now!
Chiefs/Raiders: Nothing to see here. Move along.
Fantasy Alert: Dwayne Bowe has been suspended 4 games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Chris Chambers moves to number one and Lance Long to number 2. I personally think they are both rosterable in all leagues.
Cowboys/Packers: Well what do you know, my love of this Packers team payed off for me! They really needed this win and they got it. Will Dallas have another late season collapse? Could this be the start of it? Will this springboard the Packers into the season they should be having with all their talent? Its too early to tell. We will need to see in the coming weeks, but these are definitely two of the most interesting teams in football. Very tough to figure out. Stay tuned folks, stay tuned on these two.
Cardinals/Seahawks: The right team won this game, despite Seattle getting off to a good start. This game had more of a fantasy impact than a real football one, so I'll just move on to that.
Fantasy Alert: Justin Forsett could be the best add of any replacement running backs this week. He finished the day with 123 yards and a touchdown on just 17 carries. On the Cardinals side, Beanie Wells was impressive, scoring 2 touchdowns on 85 yards. The backfield could be swinging in his favor. I'd give it one more week before I name him a fantasy starter yet though. Hightower is still too good around the goal line and as a receiver out of a backfield for them not to use him.
Eagles/Chargers: Poor Brian Westbrook. Even poorer Brian Westbrook fantasy owners. He suffered his second concussion of the year in this game and I'd be surprised to see him play again this year. LeSean McCoy is the perfect example of a handcuff, and I see his value the rest of the way skyrocketing. But for the Chargers, its good to see LT get in on the action. Welcome to the season, you're 9 weeks late. The Chargers do look good though and they have a pivotal game against Denver coming up. They need to win that one to keep my predicting priveledges in tact.
Fantasy Alert: Don't expect this out of LT very often. He is still done. Outstanding game from Donovan McNabb though, props to him.
Browns/Ravens: The Browns are right where they belong in this column: the bottom. No one is worse in the NFL.
Power Rankings out tomorrow. Take care everyone.
But you don't care about that.
Everyone and their mother is talking about "The Call." The call made by sure-fire Hall of Fame coach Bill Belichick. The call that was indefensibly, incomprehensibly, undeniably D-U-M-B.
Now I know, there have been lots of pundits out there that want to tell me that the statistics show that the Patriots had a statistically better chance at going for it and converting, than stoping the Colts final drive. But this game is not played based on statistics. If you want to follow that theory, the Patriots shouldn't employ a punter. They should go for the attempt every single time. If there is one time in the game where you should not attempt to go for it on 4th down (and I am a huge proponent of coaches going for it more often) this was it. People like to throw around the terms "playing to win" and "playing not to lose." Well guess what? The definition of win is "to not lose". That is an argument over semantics and its frankly just stupid. What Belichick did here was playing "to decide the game his way." He wanted to decide the game on one play. They make it, they win, they don't make it, they lose. That is what happens. If Belichick didn't believe his team could stop Manning from 70 yards out, he sure didn't think they could stop him from 28. So they don't make it, they lose.
I just can't see how a coach can have so little confidence in his defense. Granted Peyton Manning is lethal inside of two minutes coming from behind, but he was not having his best game. He threw two brutal interceptions earlier in the game. The Patriots had stopped him on several occasions during the game. The last drive very well could have been ended early if the Colts didn't get a very questionable pass interference call in their favor for a 30+ yard gain. Peyton Manning is not infallible. You have to give your defense the chance to Do Their Jobs.
So the decision was made, Belichick wanted to be bold. He went for it and failed. Regardless of whether the correct spot was made or not (if they hadn't used their time outs so poorly, they would have been able to challenge, improperly using time outs early in the second half continues to bite teams in the ass, pardon the language) and maybe get the call overturned. But they had no time outs and the Colts had the ball. Belichick obviously had no faith in his defense, so why wouldn't he just tell them to let them score? Just let them go. Don't play defense. Let them score on one play, put the ball back in the hands of your offense with at least 1:30 left in the game. That is the only move that makes sense with the logic he used in going for it on 4th and 2.
But they didn't do that. They let the Colts chew up the clock and score the game winning touchdown. They had no chance for a comeback. This game is all on Belichick. I know he is a terrific coach. He is a hall of famer. But on this night, his hubris got the best of him, and it cost his team a win.
And so we move on...
Bears/49ers: This was the Thursday game, a game the Bears should have won. Poor play calling and Jay Cutler thinking that the Bears changed their team colors for most of the game doomed them. It was an all around ugly game and I kinda wish I didn't even watch it. It was pitiful, these are bad teams.
Bills/Titans: Roll on Titans! The fightin' Chris Johnson's are 3-0 under Vince Young. Johnson led the team in rushing and receiving, and just dominated this game. Give credit to the defense of Tennessee though, they are looking leaps and bounds ahead of what they were 3 weeks ago. Two interception touchdowns turned this game into a blow out. The new look Titans get a real test in Houston on Monday Night Football this week. I'll be watching intently.
Fantasy Alert: If your league dropped Nate Washington, you may want to go get him. And you might want to start thinking about playing Vince Young. He's been playing really well lately. Chris Johnson takes his place as the number one back in fantasy, at least for now.
Saints/Rams: This game proved you can beat the Saints. There is no reason that they shouldn't have dominated this game. They can't get lazy, this is the NFL. I hope their coaches stress this in pratice this week or they may be in for a fall that their talent level doesn't deserve.
Fantasy Alert: Man, that Saints backfield sure is tricky. I love Pierre Thomas, but Reggie Bush stole the show in this one. I wouldn't want to be an owner of any one of them. They are too all or nothing.
Dolphins/Buccaneers: The Bucs had this one in hand, but the Dolphins are the better team, and they gutted it out at the end. Just another one of those games that bad teams always lose, even if they deserve to win.
Fantasy Alert: Ronnie Brown could be missing some serious time. You need to find a replacement now, and if you didn't already have Ricky Williams, I doubt you'll be able to add him now. Running back injuries were the theme of the week, and guys like Forsett from Seattle, Snelling from Atlanta and Scott from Cincinnati all could see some serious time in the coming weeks.
Vikings/Lions: Nothing special, better team won. Moving on.
Jaguars/Jets: Here is a game where a coach made a controversial call that worked out. He had Maurice Jones-Drew take a knee at the one yard line instead of scoring a sure touchdown, as his fantasy owners cringed. This was so the Jaguars could kill the clock and kick an easy field goal as time expires. Many have argued that you need to take the points and play defense, but why give the ball back to the other team when you don't have to? They only needed a field goal to win. Basically it comes down to this:
You have two choices to win a game, which one would you pick, all you have to do is execute and you win:
Option A) The other team has the ball and you need to stop them from having a touchdown scoring drive
or
Option B) Kick an extra point
Which of these options has a higher success rate? I'll take kicking the extra point any day. Good job Jack Del Rio, and kudos to MJD for apologizing to his fantasy owners in his press conference.
Bengals/Steelers: This Bengals team was for real last week, but now they finally get credit for it. Good for them. I am putting them in the group of elite teams, and they are doing it with defense, who'd have thought?
Fantasy Alert: Cedric Benson was one of the running backs to leave the game with injury. Bernard Scott filled in nicely, but the team went out and signed Larry Johnson anyway. That isn't going to work, but it looks like Benson should be back next week anyway. Monitor the situation.
Broncos/Redskins: Ok, I could understand the first two losses, but the Redskins? Broncos you are killing your supporters! This is the anti-Titans. Started exceptionally hot and then colled off significantly. The schedule is really easy, but they lost to the Redskins! How can you trust them anymore?
Fantasy Alert: Brandon Marshall was on pace for about 100 fantasy points after one quarter, but then he stopped producing. This was due in large part to Kyle Orton getting hurt and Chris Simms stinking up the field. with no Orton, this team is in big trouble. That's right up there with "cedric Benson is a top ten fantasy back" on my list of things I'd never thought I would say. What a season.
Falcons/Panthers: This is what happens when you lose your outstanding running back and your young quarterback isn't as good as you may have thought. You lose to the Carolina Panthers. They will be amongst the biggest movers in this weeks power rankings, as will the Falcons, in the opposite direction. Turner is expected to miss 4-6 weeks, that spells doom on their season.
Fantasy Alert: Jason Snelling filled in for Turner, and if you lost Turner, he is the guy to go get. Like now!
Chiefs/Raiders: Nothing to see here. Move along.
Fantasy Alert: Dwayne Bowe has been suspended 4 games for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Chris Chambers moves to number one and Lance Long to number 2. I personally think they are both rosterable in all leagues.
Cowboys/Packers: Well what do you know, my love of this Packers team payed off for me! They really needed this win and they got it. Will Dallas have another late season collapse? Could this be the start of it? Will this springboard the Packers into the season they should be having with all their talent? Its too early to tell. We will need to see in the coming weeks, but these are definitely two of the most interesting teams in football. Very tough to figure out. Stay tuned folks, stay tuned on these two.
Cardinals/Seahawks: The right team won this game, despite Seattle getting off to a good start. This game had more of a fantasy impact than a real football one, so I'll just move on to that.
Fantasy Alert: Justin Forsett could be the best add of any replacement running backs this week. He finished the day with 123 yards and a touchdown on just 17 carries. On the Cardinals side, Beanie Wells was impressive, scoring 2 touchdowns on 85 yards. The backfield could be swinging in his favor. I'd give it one more week before I name him a fantasy starter yet though. Hightower is still too good around the goal line and as a receiver out of a backfield for them not to use him.
Eagles/Chargers: Poor Brian Westbrook. Even poorer Brian Westbrook fantasy owners. He suffered his second concussion of the year in this game and I'd be surprised to see him play again this year. LeSean McCoy is the perfect example of a handcuff, and I see his value the rest of the way skyrocketing. But for the Chargers, its good to see LT get in on the action. Welcome to the season, you're 9 weeks late. The Chargers do look good though and they have a pivotal game against Denver coming up. They need to win that one to keep my predicting priveledges in tact.
Fantasy Alert: Don't expect this out of LT very often. He is still done. Outstanding game from Donovan McNabb though, props to him.
Browns/Ravens: The Browns are right where they belong in this column: the bottom. No one is worse in the NFL.
Power Rankings out tomorrow. Take care everyone.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
NFL Picks: Week 10
Final week before byes are all done and we get back to 16 games a week. Here we go:
NEW YORK JETS (-6.5) over Jacksonville
The Jets are coming off a bye, they're at home, they need this win to keep their playoff hopes alive, and Jacksonville isn't very good. A lot of things point to the Jets in this one.
Cincinnatti (+7) over PITTSBURGH
Like I said, I'm never underestimating Cincinnati again. they can hang with anyone, even the defending champs. They keep this one within a touchdown. I can't wait for this game, its going to be fantastic.
TENNESSEE (-8.5) over Buffalo
The Buffalo Bills give up more rushing yards than any team in football. Chris Johnson is an absolute monster. These factors combine for an ugly day for the Bills. The march to 10-6 rolls on!
MINNESOTA (-16.5) over Detroit
Minnesota should have no trouble against the hapless Lions. If Seattle can beat them by 12, Minnesota should be able to win by 24. They are at least twice as good. I can't pick the Lions any more, they just fail every time out.
MIAMI (-10) over Tampa Bay
Just because Tampa trampled Green Bay's awful O-line last week doesn't mean that they are any better than we thought. Miami will run the ball down their throat with the wildcat. They are a far different team from Green Bay, and that is why I have no problem laying 10 points on Miami in this one.
Kansas City (+2) over OAKLAND
You should know my theory by now when two bad teams are playing each other. Take the points. Even if it is only two of them, I like the Chiefs.
ARIZONA (-8.5) over Seattle
Arizona is vastly superior to Seattle. I got this one completely wrong before the season and I'm totally willing to admit it. Give me Arizona all day. They should blow Seattle out of the building.
SAN DIEGO (-1) over Eagles
This one could go either way (no kidding dummy, that's why its a one point line). I like San Diego at home. The Eagles didn't impress me last week, the Chargers did. I still don't know what to make of the Eagles. I want to like them, but I don't know. I like the Chargers and think they are hitting their stride.
GREEN BAY (+3) over Dallas
Oh Green Bay, I wish I knew how to quit you. It's a must win game in Lambeau in November. I know Dallas will get 8 sacks. But I still think that the Packers can pull off the upset. I am probably an idiot.
INDIANAPOLIS (-3) over New England
I originally picked the Patriots but I'm switching to the Colts. Peyton is too good in Prime time and my friend put the kiss of death by betting on the Pats. I like Indy.
Baltimore (-11) over CLEVELAND
The Ravens will win easily. Cleveland is the worst team in football right now. My boy Ray Rice is in for a field day on that horrible Browns defense. They win by three touchdowns if not more.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
New Orleans (-14) over ST. LOUIS
Why is the best team in football only two touchdown favorites over the St. Louis Rams? Are they that scared of Steven Jackson? I know the Saints can be run on, but come on. This will be an awful game that is never in doubt. I can't believe how low this line is. This is the Florida vs. Charleston Southern of the NFL.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Atlanta (-1.5) over CAROLINA
Atlanta is thoroughly better than Carolina, so this is just a puzzling line. Carolina is home and Deangelo Williams has played great lately, but they still aren't winning. Atlanta should make this one easy. No idea why they aren't 7 point favorites.
Lock Of The Week
Denver (-4) over WASHINGTON
Denver has looked awful the last two weeks and exposed themselves as worse than they had been playing. So Vegas overreacted and made this line only 4. They seem to have forgotten that Washington is downright awful. Denver should have an easy time dismantling the Skins, as Vegas shows them no respect.
Last Week: 7-6
Overall: 71-57-1
Lock Picks: 16-11
NEW YORK JETS (-6.5) over Jacksonville
The Jets are coming off a bye, they're at home, they need this win to keep their playoff hopes alive, and Jacksonville isn't very good. A lot of things point to the Jets in this one.
Cincinnatti (+7) over PITTSBURGH
Like I said, I'm never underestimating Cincinnati again. they can hang with anyone, even the defending champs. They keep this one within a touchdown. I can't wait for this game, its going to be fantastic.
TENNESSEE (-8.5) over Buffalo
The Buffalo Bills give up more rushing yards than any team in football. Chris Johnson is an absolute monster. These factors combine for an ugly day for the Bills. The march to 10-6 rolls on!
MINNESOTA (-16.5) over Detroit
Minnesota should have no trouble against the hapless Lions. If Seattle can beat them by 12, Minnesota should be able to win by 24. They are at least twice as good. I can't pick the Lions any more, they just fail every time out.
MIAMI (-10) over Tampa Bay
Just because Tampa trampled Green Bay's awful O-line last week doesn't mean that they are any better than we thought. Miami will run the ball down their throat with the wildcat. They are a far different team from Green Bay, and that is why I have no problem laying 10 points on Miami in this one.
Kansas City (+2) over OAKLAND
You should know my theory by now when two bad teams are playing each other. Take the points. Even if it is only two of them, I like the Chiefs.
ARIZONA (-8.5) over Seattle
Arizona is vastly superior to Seattle. I got this one completely wrong before the season and I'm totally willing to admit it. Give me Arizona all day. They should blow Seattle out of the building.
SAN DIEGO (-1) over Eagles
This one could go either way (no kidding dummy, that's why its a one point line). I like San Diego at home. The Eagles didn't impress me last week, the Chargers did. I still don't know what to make of the Eagles. I want to like them, but I don't know. I like the Chargers and think they are hitting their stride.
GREEN BAY (+3) over Dallas
Oh Green Bay, I wish I knew how to quit you. It's a must win game in Lambeau in November. I know Dallas will get 8 sacks. But I still think that the Packers can pull off the upset. I am probably an idiot.
INDIANAPOLIS (-3) over New England
I originally picked the Patriots but I'm switching to the Colts. Peyton is too good in Prime time and my friend put the kiss of death by betting on the Pats. I like Indy.
Baltimore (-11) over CLEVELAND
The Ravens will win easily. Cleveland is the worst team in football right now. My boy Ray Rice is in for a field day on that horrible Browns defense. They win by three touchdowns if not more.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
New Orleans (-14) over ST. LOUIS
Why is the best team in football only two touchdown favorites over the St. Louis Rams? Are they that scared of Steven Jackson? I know the Saints can be run on, but come on. This will be an awful game that is never in doubt. I can't believe how low this line is. This is the Florida vs. Charleston Southern of the NFL.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Atlanta (-1.5) over CAROLINA
Atlanta is thoroughly better than Carolina, so this is just a puzzling line. Carolina is home and Deangelo Williams has played great lately, but they still aren't winning. Atlanta should make this one easy. No idea why they aren't 7 point favorites.
Lock Of The Week
Denver (-4) over WASHINGTON
Denver has looked awful the last two weeks and exposed themselves as worse than they had been playing. So Vegas overreacted and made this line only 4. They seem to have forgotten that Washington is downright awful. Denver should have an easy time dismantling the Skins, as Vegas shows them no respect.
Last Week: 7-6
Overall: 71-57-1
Lock Picks: 16-11
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
NFL Power Rankings: Week 10
The top 4 remain the same and are separating themselves from the rest of the pack. Cincinnati is on the rise and can definitely break in if they beat Pittsburgh this week. Dallas, Minnesota, Arizona and San Diego are all contenders. Baltimore and Denver are falling and are both desperate for a win, which they should each get with their schedule for week 10. Tennessee is the best 2-6 team ever. Miami is also pretty good at 3-5. Cleveland is back on the bottom after Tampa Bay pulls off the upset of Green Bay.
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Cincinnati Bengals
6. Dallas Cowboys
7. Minnesota Vikings
8. Arizona Cardinals
9. San Diego Chargers
10. Philadelphia Eagles
11. Baltimore Ravens
12. Houston Texans
13. Denver Broncos
14. Atlanta Falcons
15. Miami Dolphins
16. Green Bay Packers
17. New York Jets
18. Tennessee Titans
19. Chicago Bears
20. San Francisco 49ers
21. Carolina Panthers
22. New York Giants
23. Jacksonville Jaguars
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Seattle Seahawks
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Oakland Raiders
28. Washington Redskins
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
30. St. Louis Rams
31. Detroit Lions
32. Cleveland Browns
I'm making my Thursday night game pick here: Chicago (+3) over SAN FRANCISCO
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Cincinnati Bengals
6. Dallas Cowboys
7. Minnesota Vikings
8. Arizona Cardinals
9. San Diego Chargers
10. Philadelphia Eagles
11. Baltimore Ravens
12. Houston Texans
13. Denver Broncos
14. Atlanta Falcons
15. Miami Dolphins
16. Green Bay Packers
17. New York Jets
18. Tennessee Titans
19. Chicago Bears
20. San Francisco 49ers
21. Carolina Panthers
22. New York Giants
23. Jacksonville Jaguars
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Seattle Seahawks
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Oakland Raiders
28. Washington Redskins
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
30. St. Louis Rams
31. Detroit Lions
32. Cleveland Browns
I'm making my Thursday night game pick here: Chicago (+3) over SAN FRANCISCO
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Week 9 NFL Wrap Up
Eagerly awaiting the latest ESPN 30 for 30 Documentary tonight, which everyone should watch, they have been excellent, so in the meantime, I'm going to pound out my weekly wrap, in its full, unabridged goodness. Here we go:
Packers/Buccaneers: I'll start this wrap off with the game that hurt the most this weekend. The team that I picked to win the Super Bowl just lost to the worst team in football. How could this happen? They should have won by 30, and that is not an exaggeration. There is one very clear explanation for this: Green Bay's offensive line is historically bad. They are so great at just about every skill position, but they are unable to keep their quarterback off of his back. Now some of the blame definitely rests on Rogers, as he does have a tendency to hold onto the ball for too long, but the line does him no favors. I still think they can make the playoffs, as the schedule the rest of the way is very favorable, but anything could happen with a team that loses to Tampa.
Fantasy Impact: James Jones could be a serviceable wideout in deeper leagues, as he put up over 100 yards, but most came on 74 yard TD catch. Only deep leagues should consider him. Josh Freeman actually had a decent game and anyone who desperately needs a QB in two quarterback leagues might want to take a flyer on him. Derrick Ward got in the end zone, but I still wouldn't want to own him. Aaron Rodgers is a first round pick next year.
Dolphins/Patriots: The Patriots are an elite team and the Dolphins are a little better than their record indicates. They aren't good and won't make the playoffs, but they are fully mediocre, rather than terrible. They played the Pats tough but I don't think the game was ever really in doubt.
Fantasy Impact: Maroney has one more game to prove he really belongs as the number one back in New England. I personally wouldn't want to be relying on him if you can possibly avoid it.
Chiefs/Jaguars: These teams are bad, but hey good for the Chiefs to actually make this one a game. They didn't win but it could have been a lot worse. Jamal Charles seriously needs to see more touches in this offense, and Larry Johnson being cut is good for him. That said, unless they can stop teams from jumping out to a lead on them, they won't be running very often, as evidenced by their 14 carries in this game. Matt Cassell has been ok this season. Not great, but he is definitely a fully capable starter in this league. All that said, neither of these teams is going anywhere.
Fantasy Impact: Chris Chambers found his new home to be very fruitful, scoring two late touchdowns. Something like that can seriously help his fantasy numbers as his new quarterback now knows he can trust him in the red zone and look to him as the first target. Snatch him up if he's on your wire and you need a WR. On the other side, Mike Sims-Walker remains absolutely filthy. Best pick up of the year for me.
Falcons/Redskins: A good Falcons team beat up a terrible Redskins team. A little extra-curricular activity spiced this one up on the sidelines, but really, the Falcons completely outplayed the Skins in every way. Clinton Portis got hurt and that didn't help matters. Michael Turner just ran them to death.
Fantasy Impact: Turner proves once again that he kills bad teams. He is a great back and is disproving the curse of 370, but he still has games where he fails to do anything at all. This was clearly a game where he dominated everyone on the Redskins defense. At least his owners can feel confident that he wasn't a huge bust, unlike a few other high profile picks.
Cardinals/Bears: I should have made this game one of my locks. The Bears are really struggling on both sides of the ball and Arizona isn't a bad team by any means. In fact, they are making a great case that the Super Bowl loser curse isn't affecting them at all. They have had a couple bad games, but they are still the class of their poor division and will coast to the playoffs. The Bears got behind early and had to throw all day long, a style that doesn't suit them. They are a mess right now.
Fantasy Impact: It was a feeding frenzy for the Cardinals studs. Fitzgerald had 123 yards and 2 touchdowns, Steve Breaston filled in for Anquan Boldin and racked up 91 total yards and a TD. Both Cardinals running backs went over 70 yards and both should be rostered in all leagues. Even the Cardinals tight ends Ben Patrick and Anthony Becht got in on the scoring action, but don't expect that to become a regular thing. On the Chicago side of the ball, Matt Forte might have had a good game... if he got more than 5 carries! He still gained 33 yards for an average of 6.6. The guy is still very good, he just needs more opportunities, but the Bears were far behind in this one and needed to throw. And throw they did all over the field but especially to Greg Olsen, who got his official welcome to the fantasy season! Some touted him as a top 5 tight end before the year and until now, he has shown to be a major bust. Not in this one. He amasses 71 yards and found the end zone a whopping 3 times! That said, he was only the fourth best receiver in terms of total yardage, as Devin Hester had 94, Earl Bennett had 93, and Matt Forte grabbed 74 to go with his 33 rushing. This game was a fantasy feast. Kurt Warner had 5 touchdowns and looked like the Warner of last year. Unfortunately, the only guy you might be able to grab is Bennett. Maybe Breaston if you play in a shallow league or one with slow managers. If they are there, they shouldn't be much longer.
Bengals/Ravens: I will say this as bluntly as I can: I will not be doubting this Bengals team for the rest of the season. They are good. They can be VERY good. They have all the weapons. Palmer looks back to his old self. Cedric Benson has found his new self. Chad Ochocinco is back to being an All-Pro receiver. But most importantly, the defense is so vastly improved from any point in recent Bengals history. They can play with anyone in the league. I still think the Ravens are a very good team, the Bengals just outplayed them. Every time the game scrolled by on the bottom with the score update it seemed like the Bengals had the ball. They were dominant. The only guy that could do anything in this game for the Ravens was Ray Rice, who is a top 5 back in this league, right now.
Fantasy Impact: Cedric Benson and Ray Rice are both first round picks and they were both big in this game. It was all about the running game in this one. Chris Henry of the Bengals went down for the year, so if you had him (although he's been a bust) you will need a replacement.
Colts/Texans: The Texans probably should have won this game, but this was one of those situations where the great team pulls it out and the lesser team falls short. The Colts are a great team. Year in and year out they prove it. They are a fantastic team, with a fantastic core of winners. The Texans don't have the mental fortitude to pull out a game like this, and it ended with a missed field goal. A lot of people think the Colts are the front-runners right now, and they are great, but I still put them a spot behind New Orleans. The Texans are a good team, but I think they showed that is all they are right now. A one and done Playoff team at best.
Fantasy Impact: The real fantasy story hear is the epic battle between two ineffective running backs: Ryan Moats and Steve Slaton. Moats had 16 carries to Slaton's 6, but he also fumbled on the one yard line, which was why Slaton wasn't starting in the first place. Slaton got the only rushing touchdown, but Moats caught one. Slaton averaged 2.8 yards, while Moats averaged 2.4. I still think Slaton is the better player, and he will establish himself as the number one when it matters, for the fantasy playoffs.
Seahawks/Lions: I can't talk about this game. They both suck that stupid last second interception return for a touchdown got the Seahawks a cover they didn't deserve. Moving on.
Saints/Panthers: The Panthers jumped out to the early lead, but I was never in doubt that the Saints would win this game. Just like the Colts/Texans game, the better teams almost always win these types of games. The Saints have proven that they can score at will. That is exactly how they won this game. They scored on offense, they scored on defense, it was another great win for the NFL's best team.
Fantasy Impact: Deangelo Williams is putting up huge numbers in his last couple of games and is making that fantasy push that he made last year to vault him to number one status. I'm not saying he'll finish the year that way again. I am however saying that he will justify where you drafted him. Great games from Robert Meachem and Devery Henderson for the Saints. They have four receivers that could put up useful fantasy lines in any given week and have shown that while Colston is Brees' favorite, he has no hesitation to throw to anyone else on the field. He trusts them all.
Chargers/Giants: The Giants continue their free fall to mediocrity but the difference here is that they should have won this game. They had it in the bag, then they couldn't stop Phillip Rivers in the final 2 minutes. They have the most over-rated defense in football. Its almost impossible to even make a case for them anymore, not that I ever would to begin with. The Giants made the wrong decision to trade Rivers and the picks that ended up being Merriman and Kaeding to get Eli. I know they won a Super Bowl, but Rivers is a better quarterback. He showed why again this weekend with a terrific drive to bury the Giants. They don't have a shot at the playoffs, and now my 9-7 prediction is looking too nice. I even thought they would win one over the Cardinals or Chargers. They will be lucky to finish 8-8. The only really winnable games they have left are against Carolina and Washington. That would leave them at 7-9. The Chargers on the other hand are only one game behind the Broncos and making my "must win the west" prediction for the Chargers a little more safe.
Fantasy Impact: With every game that goes by with a useless Ladanian Tomlinson, I get more and more giddy about labeling him done. I don't care if you care about it anymore, I'm doing this one for me. It is so nice to watch everyone that wasted a first round pick on this washed up bum of a running back flounder towards the bottom of the standings. Beyond that, the true storyline of the Chargers season is the emergence of Vincent Jackson as a top 5 fantasy wide receiver. I would rank only Fitzgerald, Moss, Andre Johnson and Calvin Johnson ahead of him going into next season. He is an absolute monster, scoring 2 TDs on 58 yards in this one, including the game winner.
Titans/49ers: The reign of Vince Young continues for my Titans! Here we come 10-6! Ok so no, that really won't happen. And it isn't really Vince Young that won them the last two games. However, he hasn't lost those games either. I really think he is the quarterback of the future for this franchise and never lost faith in him. But the reason they are winning games is Chris Johnson. He is the only back in the league that you can even put in the conversation with Adrian Peterson for best running back in the game. Just watch the guy run when he gets some open space. No one explodes like he does. He is the fastest back in the league and he is single handedly beating teams. I'm so glad he's on my team, because I wouldn't want to have to figure out how to stop him.
Fantasy Impact: 135 yards and two touchdowns. That is what Chris Johnson looks like when he isn't even on his A-game. There is no question he will go in the top 3 in every fantasy draft next year. Vernon Davis continues to be amazing, and haunt me for giving up on him a year too soon. I swear between him and Cedric Benson it makes me feel like nobody knows nothin.
Cowboys/Eagles: These teams are both pretty good, but the Cowboys proved to be a little better. I think there are four Elite teams in the league, but both of these teams are right outside of that tier. The Eagles were torpedoed by Andy Ried's poor clock management and waste of challenges, but if you watched the game you don't need me to tell you that. It was so obvious he had no idea what he was doing and he cost them a game they had a chance to win. I am fascinated to see what both teams do the rest of the way. They could both contend for a Super Bowl, be one and done, or one could even miss the playoffs altogether. Right now, the Cowboys are better.
Fantasy Impact: If you have Lesean McCoy in a keeper league at a good late round value, you want to hang onto him. He is a Brian Westbrook clone. He is already great and I don't think the Eagles lose anything when they have to start him because fantasy bust Brian Westbrook misses time with one of his numerous injuries.
Steelers/Broncos: The Steelers are the 4th Elite team in football, and proved that the Broncos are not. They are still pretty good, but not in that upper class. I think they may have peaked too early and everyone jumped on the bandwagon, but they probably are not as good as they have appeared. They have been a little smoke and mirrors, but only just a little. I still think they are good enough to make the playoffs, as anyone with a defense that good is. But they are certainly a beatable team and if they come across a very strong team, like the Steelers, their weaknesses can easily be exploited. The Steelers could repeat this year, but I think The Colts and Patriots stand firmly in their way.
Fantasy Impact: Rashard Mendenhall just took the Pittsburgh Steelers running back and made it his. There is no more doubt about who is going to get the vast majority of carries for the Steelers. 22 carries for 155 yards is quite impressive for the young back. Another great keeper option if you have him at a good value.
Thats what I have for you this week. Watching 30 for 30 on the legend of Jimmy the Greek as I type. If you don't catch it this time it will reshow on Monday night on ESPN 2. Strongly recommended. Until next time...
Packers/Buccaneers: I'll start this wrap off with the game that hurt the most this weekend. The team that I picked to win the Super Bowl just lost to the worst team in football. How could this happen? They should have won by 30, and that is not an exaggeration. There is one very clear explanation for this: Green Bay's offensive line is historically bad. They are so great at just about every skill position, but they are unable to keep their quarterback off of his back. Now some of the blame definitely rests on Rogers, as he does have a tendency to hold onto the ball for too long, but the line does him no favors. I still think they can make the playoffs, as the schedule the rest of the way is very favorable, but anything could happen with a team that loses to Tampa.
Fantasy Impact: James Jones could be a serviceable wideout in deeper leagues, as he put up over 100 yards, but most came on 74 yard TD catch. Only deep leagues should consider him. Josh Freeman actually had a decent game and anyone who desperately needs a QB in two quarterback leagues might want to take a flyer on him. Derrick Ward got in the end zone, but I still wouldn't want to own him. Aaron Rodgers is a first round pick next year.
Dolphins/Patriots: The Patriots are an elite team and the Dolphins are a little better than their record indicates. They aren't good and won't make the playoffs, but they are fully mediocre, rather than terrible. They played the Pats tough but I don't think the game was ever really in doubt.
Fantasy Impact: Maroney has one more game to prove he really belongs as the number one back in New England. I personally wouldn't want to be relying on him if you can possibly avoid it.
Chiefs/Jaguars: These teams are bad, but hey good for the Chiefs to actually make this one a game. They didn't win but it could have been a lot worse. Jamal Charles seriously needs to see more touches in this offense, and Larry Johnson being cut is good for him. That said, unless they can stop teams from jumping out to a lead on them, they won't be running very often, as evidenced by their 14 carries in this game. Matt Cassell has been ok this season. Not great, but he is definitely a fully capable starter in this league. All that said, neither of these teams is going anywhere.
Fantasy Impact: Chris Chambers found his new home to be very fruitful, scoring two late touchdowns. Something like that can seriously help his fantasy numbers as his new quarterback now knows he can trust him in the red zone and look to him as the first target. Snatch him up if he's on your wire and you need a WR. On the other side, Mike Sims-Walker remains absolutely filthy. Best pick up of the year for me.
Falcons/Redskins: A good Falcons team beat up a terrible Redskins team. A little extra-curricular activity spiced this one up on the sidelines, but really, the Falcons completely outplayed the Skins in every way. Clinton Portis got hurt and that didn't help matters. Michael Turner just ran them to death.
Fantasy Impact: Turner proves once again that he kills bad teams. He is a great back and is disproving the curse of 370, but he still has games where he fails to do anything at all. This was clearly a game where he dominated everyone on the Redskins defense. At least his owners can feel confident that he wasn't a huge bust, unlike a few other high profile picks.
Cardinals/Bears: I should have made this game one of my locks. The Bears are really struggling on both sides of the ball and Arizona isn't a bad team by any means. In fact, they are making a great case that the Super Bowl loser curse isn't affecting them at all. They have had a couple bad games, but they are still the class of their poor division and will coast to the playoffs. The Bears got behind early and had to throw all day long, a style that doesn't suit them. They are a mess right now.
Fantasy Impact: It was a feeding frenzy for the Cardinals studs. Fitzgerald had 123 yards and 2 touchdowns, Steve Breaston filled in for Anquan Boldin and racked up 91 total yards and a TD. Both Cardinals running backs went over 70 yards and both should be rostered in all leagues. Even the Cardinals tight ends Ben Patrick and Anthony Becht got in on the scoring action, but don't expect that to become a regular thing. On the Chicago side of the ball, Matt Forte might have had a good game... if he got more than 5 carries! He still gained 33 yards for an average of 6.6. The guy is still very good, he just needs more opportunities, but the Bears were far behind in this one and needed to throw. And throw they did all over the field but especially to Greg Olsen, who got his official welcome to the fantasy season! Some touted him as a top 5 tight end before the year and until now, he has shown to be a major bust. Not in this one. He amasses 71 yards and found the end zone a whopping 3 times! That said, he was only the fourth best receiver in terms of total yardage, as Devin Hester had 94, Earl Bennett had 93, and Matt Forte grabbed 74 to go with his 33 rushing. This game was a fantasy feast. Kurt Warner had 5 touchdowns and looked like the Warner of last year. Unfortunately, the only guy you might be able to grab is Bennett. Maybe Breaston if you play in a shallow league or one with slow managers. If they are there, they shouldn't be much longer.
Bengals/Ravens: I will say this as bluntly as I can: I will not be doubting this Bengals team for the rest of the season. They are good. They can be VERY good. They have all the weapons. Palmer looks back to his old self. Cedric Benson has found his new self. Chad Ochocinco is back to being an All-Pro receiver. But most importantly, the defense is so vastly improved from any point in recent Bengals history. They can play with anyone in the league. I still think the Ravens are a very good team, the Bengals just outplayed them. Every time the game scrolled by on the bottom with the score update it seemed like the Bengals had the ball. They were dominant. The only guy that could do anything in this game for the Ravens was Ray Rice, who is a top 5 back in this league, right now.
Fantasy Impact: Cedric Benson and Ray Rice are both first round picks and they were both big in this game. It was all about the running game in this one. Chris Henry of the Bengals went down for the year, so if you had him (although he's been a bust) you will need a replacement.
Colts/Texans: The Texans probably should have won this game, but this was one of those situations where the great team pulls it out and the lesser team falls short. The Colts are a great team. Year in and year out they prove it. They are a fantastic team, with a fantastic core of winners. The Texans don't have the mental fortitude to pull out a game like this, and it ended with a missed field goal. A lot of people think the Colts are the front-runners right now, and they are great, but I still put them a spot behind New Orleans. The Texans are a good team, but I think they showed that is all they are right now. A one and done Playoff team at best.
Fantasy Impact: The real fantasy story hear is the epic battle between two ineffective running backs: Ryan Moats and Steve Slaton. Moats had 16 carries to Slaton's 6, but he also fumbled on the one yard line, which was why Slaton wasn't starting in the first place. Slaton got the only rushing touchdown, but Moats caught one. Slaton averaged 2.8 yards, while Moats averaged 2.4. I still think Slaton is the better player, and he will establish himself as the number one when it matters, for the fantasy playoffs.
Seahawks/Lions: I can't talk about this game. They both suck that stupid last second interception return for a touchdown got the Seahawks a cover they didn't deserve. Moving on.
Saints/Panthers: The Panthers jumped out to the early lead, but I was never in doubt that the Saints would win this game. Just like the Colts/Texans game, the better teams almost always win these types of games. The Saints have proven that they can score at will. That is exactly how they won this game. They scored on offense, they scored on defense, it was another great win for the NFL's best team.
Fantasy Impact: Deangelo Williams is putting up huge numbers in his last couple of games and is making that fantasy push that he made last year to vault him to number one status. I'm not saying he'll finish the year that way again. I am however saying that he will justify where you drafted him. Great games from Robert Meachem and Devery Henderson for the Saints. They have four receivers that could put up useful fantasy lines in any given week and have shown that while Colston is Brees' favorite, he has no hesitation to throw to anyone else on the field. He trusts them all.
Chargers/Giants: The Giants continue their free fall to mediocrity but the difference here is that they should have won this game. They had it in the bag, then they couldn't stop Phillip Rivers in the final 2 minutes. They have the most over-rated defense in football. Its almost impossible to even make a case for them anymore, not that I ever would to begin with. The Giants made the wrong decision to trade Rivers and the picks that ended up being Merriman and Kaeding to get Eli. I know they won a Super Bowl, but Rivers is a better quarterback. He showed why again this weekend with a terrific drive to bury the Giants. They don't have a shot at the playoffs, and now my 9-7 prediction is looking too nice. I even thought they would win one over the Cardinals or Chargers. They will be lucky to finish 8-8. The only really winnable games they have left are against Carolina and Washington. That would leave them at 7-9. The Chargers on the other hand are only one game behind the Broncos and making my "must win the west" prediction for the Chargers a little more safe.
Fantasy Impact: With every game that goes by with a useless Ladanian Tomlinson, I get more and more giddy about labeling him done. I don't care if you care about it anymore, I'm doing this one for me. It is so nice to watch everyone that wasted a first round pick on this washed up bum of a running back flounder towards the bottom of the standings. Beyond that, the true storyline of the Chargers season is the emergence of Vincent Jackson as a top 5 fantasy wide receiver. I would rank only Fitzgerald, Moss, Andre Johnson and Calvin Johnson ahead of him going into next season. He is an absolute monster, scoring 2 TDs on 58 yards in this one, including the game winner.
Titans/49ers: The reign of Vince Young continues for my Titans! Here we come 10-6! Ok so no, that really won't happen. And it isn't really Vince Young that won them the last two games. However, he hasn't lost those games either. I really think he is the quarterback of the future for this franchise and never lost faith in him. But the reason they are winning games is Chris Johnson. He is the only back in the league that you can even put in the conversation with Adrian Peterson for best running back in the game. Just watch the guy run when he gets some open space. No one explodes like he does. He is the fastest back in the league and he is single handedly beating teams. I'm so glad he's on my team, because I wouldn't want to have to figure out how to stop him.
Fantasy Impact: 135 yards and two touchdowns. That is what Chris Johnson looks like when he isn't even on his A-game. There is no question he will go in the top 3 in every fantasy draft next year. Vernon Davis continues to be amazing, and haunt me for giving up on him a year too soon. I swear between him and Cedric Benson it makes me feel like nobody knows nothin.
Cowboys/Eagles: These teams are both pretty good, but the Cowboys proved to be a little better. I think there are four Elite teams in the league, but both of these teams are right outside of that tier. The Eagles were torpedoed by Andy Ried's poor clock management and waste of challenges, but if you watched the game you don't need me to tell you that. It was so obvious he had no idea what he was doing and he cost them a game they had a chance to win. I am fascinated to see what both teams do the rest of the way. They could both contend for a Super Bowl, be one and done, or one could even miss the playoffs altogether. Right now, the Cowboys are better.
Fantasy Impact: If you have Lesean McCoy in a keeper league at a good late round value, you want to hang onto him. He is a Brian Westbrook clone. He is already great and I don't think the Eagles lose anything when they have to start him because fantasy bust Brian Westbrook misses time with one of his numerous injuries.
Steelers/Broncos: The Steelers are the 4th Elite team in football, and proved that the Broncos are not. They are still pretty good, but not in that upper class. I think they may have peaked too early and everyone jumped on the bandwagon, but they probably are not as good as they have appeared. They have been a little smoke and mirrors, but only just a little. I still think they are good enough to make the playoffs, as anyone with a defense that good is. But they are certainly a beatable team and if they come across a very strong team, like the Steelers, their weaknesses can easily be exploited. The Steelers could repeat this year, but I think The Colts and Patriots stand firmly in their way.
Fantasy Impact: Rashard Mendenhall just took the Pittsburgh Steelers running back and made it his. There is no more doubt about who is going to get the vast majority of carries for the Steelers. 22 carries for 155 yards is quite impressive for the young back. Another great keeper option if you have him at a good value.
Thats what I have for you this week. Watching 30 for 30 on the legend of Jimmy the Greek as I type. If you don't catch it this time it will reshow on Monday night on ESPN 2. Strongly recommended. Until next time...
NBA Power Rankings
Here they are, edition one of the Power Rankings for the NBA:
1. Boston Celtics
2. Los Angeles Lakers
3. Denver Nuggets
4. Phoenix Suns
5. Dallas Mavericks
6. Atlanta Hawks
7. Orlando Magic
8. Houston Rockets
9. Miami Heat
10. Portland Trail Blazers
11. San Antonio Spurs
12. Oklahoma City Thunder
13. Chicago Bulls
14. Cleveland Cavaliers
15. Toronto Raptors
16. Utah Jazz
17. Milwaukee Bucks
18. Detroit Pistons
19. Philadelphia 76ers
20. New Orleans Hornets
21. Los Angeles Clippers
22. Sacramento Kings
23. Charlotte Bobcats
24. Golden State Warriors
25. Washington Wizards
26. Indiana Pacers
27. Memphis Grizzlies
28. New York Knicks
29. Minnesota Timberwolves
30. New Jersey Nets
Better than I thought: Denver, Phoenix, Dallas, Miami
Worse than I thought: Nets (although in their defense, they are crushed by injury), Warriors, Hornets, Cavaliers
1. Boston Celtics
2. Los Angeles Lakers
3. Denver Nuggets
4. Phoenix Suns
5. Dallas Mavericks
6. Atlanta Hawks
7. Orlando Magic
8. Houston Rockets
9. Miami Heat
10. Portland Trail Blazers
11. San Antonio Spurs
12. Oklahoma City Thunder
13. Chicago Bulls
14. Cleveland Cavaliers
15. Toronto Raptors
16. Utah Jazz
17. Milwaukee Bucks
18. Detroit Pistons
19. Philadelphia 76ers
20. New Orleans Hornets
21. Los Angeles Clippers
22. Sacramento Kings
23. Charlotte Bobcats
24. Golden State Warriors
25. Washington Wizards
26. Indiana Pacers
27. Memphis Grizzlies
28. New York Knicks
29. Minnesota Timberwolves
30. New Jersey Nets
Better than I thought: Denver, Phoenix, Dallas, Miami
Worse than I thought: Nets (although in their defense, they are crushed by injury), Warriors, Hornets, Cavaliers
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Week 9 NFL Picks
ATLANTA (-8.5) over Washington
Washington is absolutely terrible, and Atlanta is still pretty good. This should be a two touchdown game.
Arizona (+3) over CHICAGO
I know Arizona laid an egg against Carolina last week but I still trust them more than I trust this Bears team. I'll definitely take the dog in this one. Arizona is the better team.
Baltimore (-3) over CINCINNATI
I like both of these teams a lot, but I really believe in Baltimore. I think they are one of the premier teams in the league. Cincinnati hasn't quite shown me that they are yet. I expect a close game though, and this could very well turn out a push.
Houston (+8.5) over INDIANAPOLIS
Houston is a much better team than San Fransisco, and San Fran kept it close against Indy. I honestly think this could be the week Indy loses. Houston is a hot team right now and they can beat you in a lot of ways. I'll definitely take those points.
NEW ENGLAND (-10.5) over Miami
I don't think Miami is very good. They have proven they can't hang with elite teams, and New England is an elite team. Its also in frosty New England. I just don't think Miami matches up well with this Patriot team. They can be thrown on.
Kansas City (+6.5) over Jacksonville
Call it a hunch, but I think Kansas City can hang with the Jaguars. If the Titans can blow them out, Kansas City can keep it close. I think losing Larry Johnson actually helps this team, as it lets Jamal Charles, the better back, get the bulk of the carries for the first time. I definitely think KC can pull off this upset, so I am taking the points.
NEW ORLEANS (-13) over Carolina
New Orleans is definitely two touchdowns better than Carolina. This line should be at least 17. The best team in the league will not roll over in this one.
Tennessee (+4) over San Fransisco
Ok, I'll admit it. It was nice to see my Titans win a game last week. Very, very nice. So nice to the point where I am fully back on the Vince Young bandwagon and think he can lead the team to victory once again against an over-rated Niners team. Come on Vince! Come on Chris Johnson! You can do it again!
PHILADELPHIA (-3) over Dallas
Should be an excellent, high octane game that remains close. I don't love one team in this game, but I think Philly is a little better and they are at home, so I'll take them.
Pittsburgh (-3) over DENVER
I think Denver got a little bit exposed last week. The Ravens were highly effective in stopping their offense, and Pittsburgh should be able to follow in their footsteps. Should be low scoring, but I will take the favorites. Can't wait to watch it though.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
San Diego (+4.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
San Diego should be favored in this game. Vegas continues to think the Giants are good, even when their on field performance proves otherwise. You know my thoughts on how bad they are, San Diego should cruise.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Detroit (+10) over SEATTLE
Both of these teams are just about equally awful, so why not take the team that has a 10 point cushion? I couldn't tell you who will win this one straight up. I think you are getting a bit of a gift because the line is an over-reaction to Detroit losing to the Rams. Calvin Johnson will be back in this one, I can't pick against those 10 points.
Lock Of The Week
Green Bay (-10) over TAMPA BAY
Seriously? Just 10 points? Why? This is a stupid line. Tampa can not hang with anyone in the league, let alone Green Bay. I'd be surprised if Tampa scores more than 7 points.
Last Week: 6-7
Overall: 64-51-1
Lock Picks: 15-9
Washington is absolutely terrible, and Atlanta is still pretty good. This should be a two touchdown game.
Arizona (+3) over CHICAGO
I know Arizona laid an egg against Carolina last week but I still trust them more than I trust this Bears team. I'll definitely take the dog in this one. Arizona is the better team.
Baltimore (-3) over CINCINNATI
I like both of these teams a lot, but I really believe in Baltimore. I think they are one of the premier teams in the league. Cincinnati hasn't quite shown me that they are yet. I expect a close game though, and this could very well turn out a push.
Houston (+8.5) over INDIANAPOLIS
Houston is a much better team than San Fransisco, and San Fran kept it close against Indy. I honestly think this could be the week Indy loses. Houston is a hot team right now and they can beat you in a lot of ways. I'll definitely take those points.
NEW ENGLAND (-10.5) over Miami
I don't think Miami is very good. They have proven they can't hang with elite teams, and New England is an elite team. Its also in frosty New England. I just don't think Miami matches up well with this Patriot team. They can be thrown on.
Kansas City (+6.5) over Jacksonville
Call it a hunch, but I think Kansas City can hang with the Jaguars. If the Titans can blow them out, Kansas City can keep it close. I think losing Larry Johnson actually helps this team, as it lets Jamal Charles, the better back, get the bulk of the carries for the first time. I definitely think KC can pull off this upset, so I am taking the points.
NEW ORLEANS (-13) over Carolina
New Orleans is definitely two touchdowns better than Carolina. This line should be at least 17. The best team in the league will not roll over in this one.
Tennessee (+4) over San Fransisco
Ok, I'll admit it. It was nice to see my Titans win a game last week. Very, very nice. So nice to the point where I am fully back on the Vince Young bandwagon and think he can lead the team to victory once again against an over-rated Niners team. Come on Vince! Come on Chris Johnson! You can do it again!
PHILADELPHIA (-3) over Dallas
Should be an excellent, high octane game that remains close. I don't love one team in this game, but I think Philly is a little better and they are at home, so I'll take them.
Pittsburgh (-3) over DENVER
I think Denver got a little bit exposed last week. The Ravens were highly effective in stopping their offense, and Pittsburgh should be able to follow in their footsteps. Should be low scoring, but I will take the favorites. Can't wait to watch it though.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
San Diego (+4.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
San Diego should be favored in this game. Vegas continues to think the Giants are good, even when their on field performance proves otherwise. You know my thoughts on how bad they are, San Diego should cruise.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Detroit (+10) over SEATTLE
Both of these teams are just about equally awful, so why not take the team that has a 10 point cushion? I couldn't tell you who will win this one straight up. I think you are getting a bit of a gift because the line is an over-reaction to Detroit losing to the Rams. Calvin Johnson will be back in this one, I can't pick against those 10 points.
Lock Of The Week
Green Bay (-10) over TAMPA BAY
Seriously? Just 10 points? Why? This is a stupid line. Tampa can not hang with anyone in the league, let alone Green Bay. I'd be surprised if Tampa scores more than 7 points.
Last Week: 6-7
Overall: 64-51-1
Lock Picks: 15-9
Friday, November 6, 2009
Film Review: Paranormal Activity
Paranormal Activity
This was the worst porno film I've ever had the displeasure of watching. Where was the sex??? It was just nothing but those in between scenes where the girl tells the guy to shut the camera off. Usually there's a payoff... Wait this was supposed to be an amateur sex tape right? Because that's exactly how it felt.
Now I know, the point was to make the film seem real, as if these events were actually happening to these people. However, I just can’t say that they succeeded in doing so. These characters do not feel like real people. Sure, the quality of the camera work seems like something that real people could do. Of course, the effects used in this movie do not feel overly fake like they do in most horror films. What makes this film fail is that the characters themselves fall right into the same horror movie cliché. They are so stupid to the point that no real person would have reacted to their situation the same way, and thus, loses all believability.
The male character in the film, Micah, plays the stereotypical horror character that throughout the film thinks he can outsmart, outfight, and basically beat the villain, just because he is so cool. I like to call this character “the horror tool.” Micah fits the bill precisely. Why would any person who actually believes that a demon is haunting their house and their girlfriend go around provoking said demon? Well, because it moves the plot along and gives you some resemblance to a story (which there is very little to begin with). A real, rational thinking person would do anything they can to make the paranormal activity go away. This guy wants to make it mad. Typical horror tool behaviour.
The female character, Katie, is a lot more believable. However, she doesn’t do enough to try and stop what is happening to her and just kind of lets Micah run the show. In order for a film to feel real, to have the kind of suspense that everyone is praising Paranormal Activity for, you have to be able to relate to the characters. You have to be able to feel sympathy for the characters. You have to think to yourself that what you are watching on screen could happen to you. Not once during this film did I feel any of that.
Instead, I found myself frustrated with their actions. For example, the couple leaves the door to their bedroom wide open throughout the entire film, inviting the demon inside. Would anybody actually do that? I’m not suggesting that simply closing the door would have stopped the demon, but any real person would have at least tried to close and lock the door. These two didn’t think of that. Nor did they try very hard to bring in experts to try and solve the problem.
The film plays out just like The Blair Witch Project only inside of a house rather than in the woods. Very little story, not much actually happens, several unnecessary boring scenes, terrible acting and about 5 minutes of genuinely creepy stuff towards the end. This does not make a good film. I wasn’t scared, I wasn’t on the edge of my seat, the film was actual pretty laughable to me. I was hoping that the ending would be good, and at least give the film some form of redeeming quality, but really it was just totally anticlimactic. I never had high hopes for the film, but it even fell below whatever curiosity I had, sparked by all the praise it had been given. This was by far the worst film I have seen this year, and really the worst I have seen in a long time.
2/10
This was the worst porno film I've ever had the displeasure of watching. Where was the sex??? It was just nothing but those in between scenes where the girl tells the guy to shut the camera off. Usually there's a payoff... Wait this was supposed to be an amateur sex tape right? Because that's exactly how it felt.
Now I know, the point was to make the film seem real, as if these events were actually happening to these people. However, I just can’t say that they succeeded in doing so. These characters do not feel like real people. Sure, the quality of the camera work seems like something that real people could do. Of course, the effects used in this movie do not feel overly fake like they do in most horror films. What makes this film fail is that the characters themselves fall right into the same horror movie cliché. They are so stupid to the point that no real person would have reacted to their situation the same way, and thus, loses all believability.
The male character in the film, Micah, plays the stereotypical horror character that throughout the film thinks he can outsmart, outfight, and basically beat the villain, just because he is so cool. I like to call this character “the horror tool.” Micah fits the bill precisely. Why would any person who actually believes that a demon is haunting their house and their girlfriend go around provoking said demon? Well, because it moves the plot along and gives you some resemblance to a story (which there is very little to begin with). A real, rational thinking person would do anything they can to make the paranormal activity go away. This guy wants to make it mad. Typical horror tool behaviour.
The female character, Katie, is a lot more believable. However, she doesn’t do enough to try and stop what is happening to her and just kind of lets Micah run the show. In order for a film to feel real, to have the kind of suspense that everyone is praising Paranormal Activity for, you have to be able to relate to the characters. You have to be able to feel sympathy for the characters. You have to think to yourself that what you are watching on screen could happen to you. Not once during this film did I feel any of that.
Instead, I found myself frustrated with their actions. For example, the couple leaves the door to their bedroom wide open throughout the entire film, inviting the demon inside. Would anybody actually do that? I’m not suggesting that simply closing the door would have stopped the demon, but any real person would have at least tried to close and lock the door. These two didn’t think of that. Nor did they try very hard to bring in experts to try and solve the problem.
The film plays out just like The Blair Witch Project only inside of a house rather than in the woods. Very little story, not much actually happens, several unnecessary boring scenes, terrible acting and about 5 minutes of genuinely creepy stuff towards the end. This does not make a good film. I wasn’t scared, I wasn’t on the edge of my seat, the film was actual pretty laughable to me. I was hoping that the ending would be good, and at least give the film some form of redeeming quality, but really it was just totally anticlimactic. I never had high hopes for the film, but it even fell below whatever curiosity I had, sparked by all the praise it had been given. This was by far the worst film I have seen this year, and really the worst I have seen in a long time.
2/10
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Week 9 Power Rankings
I wasn't able to do a recap this week, I know, I'm slacking. I promise there will be one next week, along with NBA power rankings. For now, here are my new NFL Power Rankings for week 9.
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. Minnesota Vikings
7. Dallas Cowboys
8. Philadelphia Eagles
9. Denver Broncos
10. Houston Texans
11. Cincinnati Bengals
12. San Diego Chargers
13. Atlanta Falcons
14. Green Bay Packers
15. Arizona Cardinals
16. Chicago Bears
17. Miami Dolphins
18. New York Jets
19. San Francisco 49ers
20. New York Giants
21. Carolina Panthers
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Tennessee Titans
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Seattle Seahawks
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Oakland Raiders
28. Washington Redskins
29. St. Louis Rams
30. Detroit Lions
31. Cleveland Browns
32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
1. New Orleans Saints
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. New England Patriots
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. Minnesota Vikings
7. Dallas Cowboys
8. Philadelphia Eagles
9. Denver Broncos
10. Houston Texans
11. Cincinnati Bengals
12. San Diego Chargers
13. Atlanta Falcons
14. Green Bay Packers
15. Arizona Cardinals
16. Chicago Bears
17. Miami Dolphins
18. New York Jets
19. San Francisco 49ers
20. New York Giants
21. Carolina Panthers
22. Jacksonville Jaguars
23. Tennessee Titans
24. Buffalo Bills
25. Seattle Seahawks
26. Kansas City Chiefs
27. Oakland Raiders
28. Washington Redskins
29. St. Louis Rams
30. Detroit Lions
31. Cleveland Browns
32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)