Tiger...what's up?

Every time I think I am back to posting regularly I end up falling behind again and not coming around. So while I say I am back....I do mean it but sometimes stuff happens.


Tiger Woods....

What were you thinking?

When I first saw the report on Friday that he had been in an accident I was surprised and concerned about his well being. But later we found out that the idiot reporters had made a mole hill into a mountain. The accident wasn't that bad and he was fine.

Since then the story has taken a few different swings and personally I couldn't care about them at all. If he was unfaithful...oh well for his wife. If he lied and she smacked him around...oh well for him.

I don't care and neither should anyone else. What Tiger and his family are dealing with is their business and no one elses. This country (and world I am sure) is so screwed up. People are so concerned with other people and gossip about other people's lives more than live their own. I try really hard not to get caught up in it too much. I don't care who married who in Hollywood or what athlete is cheating on his wife or dating someone new this week. But some people do.

To those people...get a freaking life. If Tiger is having doubts in his marriage (or if Elin is now having the doubts) it isn't your business. Let them get through it without having to explain it to you. The amazing thing about all this crap is that there are actually news stories coming out saying that they know nothing new. Great...thanks for the info.

Tiger....get your life in order and get back to golf if you want.

theGMs newest College Football Top 10

Last week's installment of the top ten can be found here. But before we get to this week's top ten lets examine my post from Thursday about the BCS imploding. It is well on its way!

Alabama beat LSU virtually eliminating the Tigers from contention.

Ohio State beat Penn State which eliminated the Lions.

Oregon lost to Stanford in a shocker which knocks the Ducks out of contention.

Iowa lost to Northwestern which gives them a loss and more than likely gets rid of them.

That is a pretty good weekend but more needs to be done. While TCU did make it to #4 in the BCS I think Cincinnati will pass them if they were to run the table. Meaning Cincy still needs to lose.

But that should happen. The other problem and the bigger problem is Texas. Will Texas lose? Florida or Alabama will be out because of them playing each other and there is no chance two teams from the same conference will play against each other in the title game.

There are still a couple other teams to watch out for, Pittsburgh and Georgia Tech. And if Pittsburgh truly has a chance then so would Iowa. But with their remaining schedule it might be enough.

Again....the key to TCU making the title game (outside of TCU actually winning all their games) is Texas losing.


Now its time for this week's top 10....

1. Texas (1) 9-0 | The Longhorns are the best team I have seen this season. They have been the most consistent on both sides of the ball and have executed as well as anyone. A couple tests remain but nothing that stands out from the rest. As long as they win they should make the title game.
2. Alabama (2) 9-0 | Beating LSU was definitely impressive and they have cemented themselves in as the best team in the SEC in my opinion. Offensively they still struggle at times which is why they remain behind Texas. They still need to win out to get to the title game.
3. Florida (3) 9-0 | Not nearly as dominant a team as they were last season which is what is keeping them down in my rankings. Still very good but not as good as the Tigers or Longhorns at this point.
4. Cincinnati (6) 9-0 | They struggled a bit with UConn which raises very large warning flags with WVU and Pitt still to come but they did win and that's all that matters at the end of the day.
5. TCU (7) 9-0 | Personally I want them to make the title game as I legitimately think they can win it but they need help obviously. Beating up on SDSU is good but doing it to Utah will be better.
6. Boise State (10) 9-0 | They move up in my rankings thanks to many losses and Georgia Tech's struggles against Wake. They really only have one more test and it is barely a test. They will never jump TCU or many 1 loss teams with their schedule.
7. Georgia Tech (8) 8-1 | As good an executing team as their is in the country but struggling with Wake is not good. But they won and in a few weeks no one will even remember their struggles. An ACC title (and no more losses) could be enough to get them moved up.
8. LSU (4) 7-2 | When your two losses are to the #2 and #3 teams then you don't drop far. Against any other conference leader (except Texas) they would probably dominate.
9. Pittsburgh (-) 8-1 | This team is performing as well as anyone. They haven't really proven themselves just yet but their opportunities begin in a couple weeks.
10. Miami (-) 7-2 | They weren't even on the radar last week but when teams lose to Northwestern and Stanford they can no longer appear on this list until they redeem themselves.

Just Missed:

Utah - they are 8-1 with only a loss to Oregon on their resume. They have 2 chances to prove themselves and ruin my dreams....starting this week against TCU.
Iowa - they are still 9-1 but just as easily could be 7-3 in my opinion. They have to beat OSU to even be considered for the top 10.

How to blow up the BCS....

Let's play a little hypothetical game today. We all want to see the BCS implode right? Sure we do. How would that most likely happen??

A non-BCS conference school would have to win the National Championship. There is no way the presidents and athletic directors at the BCS schools could ignore that.

And lucky for us this might be the best chance for that to happen.

At this time there are 2 undefeated non BCS schools in the top 7 of the BCS...TCU and Boise State. Above them however there are still 5 undefeated BCS schools (Alabama, Florida, Texas, Iowa, and Cincinnati). In addition to them though there are 5 additional BCS schools with only 1 loss that could jump them in the BCS if they win the remainder of their games (Georgia Tech, Oregon, Penn State, Pittsburgh, and LSU).

So let's just be safe and assume that 9 of those teams have to lose in order for this to happen. And if a school from one conference remains undefeated any school from that conference will automatically be eliminated because they would not allow teams from the same conference in the BCS title game.

Meaning if Florida goes undefeated and plays an undefeated Alabama team in the SEC title game there is no chance you would see that matchup again in January.

So I took at the schedules and this is what I think....

Florida needs to run the table....

Alabama would win out (which would give LSU its 2nd loss) and then lose to Florida in the SEC Championship....

Texas would have to lose to either Kansas or Texas A&M (could happen) and then struggle in the Big 12 Title game....

Iowa would have to lose one ot their remaining 3 games...most likely 11/14 @ Ohio State....

Cincinnati has 4 games left and needs to lose 1 (no way a 1 loss Big East team gets in) most likely to lose @ Pittsburgh on 12/5....

LSU would have already lost their 2nd but if they were to beat Bama this weekend they could also lose either against Ole Miss, Arkansas or in the SEC title game....

Oregon is on the outside looking in honestly since they already lost to Boise. There would be one hell of an uproar if Oregon gets in over Boise but to make sure that doesn't happen they need to lose @ Arizona or against Oregon State....

Penn State might not leap over either TCU or Boise anyhow but to be sure they would need to probably lose this weekend against Ohio State....

Pittsburgh (like PSU) probably isn't going to make it but to be sure have Notre Dame, WVU, or Cincy beat them (likely)....

Georgia Tech is the toughest to pick out a loss...they shouldn't be challenged until the ACC Title game and that might not be a challenge either....but Georgia could beat them after Thanksgiving...

That all leaves only 1 more thing...

Boise and/or TCU HAS TO RUN THE TABLE....

TCU could lose this week (watch out for SDSU in a trap game) or next week vs Utah....

Boise has 2 tough games left (technically) against La Tech this week or Idaho next week....

But if we want to see the BCS implode wouldn't it be great to finish it off with an ALL non-BCS title game of Boise vs TCU!?!?!

The potential to see this is small but starting this week there are games that matter....

Alabama over LSU
Ohio State over Penn State
UConn over Cincy
Wake Forest over Georgia Tech
Boise State over La Tech
TCU over San Diego State U

Sure there are other games and if those outcomes don't come to be there are other chances to see these teams lose but those are the best chances to see the beginning of the end of the BCS!


***if I confused you above just look at this....

Alabama beats LSU this weekend but loses to Florida on 12/5...

Texas loses to Kansas and for good measure to Texas A&M...

Iowa loses to Ohio State...

Cincinnati loses to Pittsburgh....

Oregon loses to Arizona and/or Oregon State...

Georgia Tech loses to Georgia....

Penn State loses to Ohio State...

Pittsburgh loses to West Virginia...

AND...

Boise State and/or TCU win the rest of their games....

And we get to see...

Florida vs TCU/Boise St. for the National Championship....AWESOME!!!

theGM's NFC Power 6

Yesterday we had the AFC Power 6....now the NFC Power 6. Here is last week's list in case you want to see what is changing.

After watching the Eagles, Vikings, and Saints win big matchups I think you should have an idea of who the best teams are in the NFC....there is much less uncertainty amongst NFC teams.


1. New Orleans Saints | 7-0

Was there any doubt? Easily the best team in the NFC..maybe in the league. Brees and Co. on offense are almost unstoppable and the defense is scoring at will anymore too.

A few tests coming up (kinda) with New England, Dallas, and Atlanta on the slate. But the next 3 weeks....Carolina, Tampa Bay, and St Louis....wow!

2. Minnesota Vikings | 7-1

I still have substantial questions about this team and I doubt very much that they make it to the NFC title game but right now they are as good as any.

Favre's age WILL catch up to him at some point and then what happens to this team? Favre is their heart and soul right now just like he was last season with New York. When he goes...so go the Vikings.

3. Philadelphia Eagles | 5-2

They were at #6 last week and then embarrassed the Giants on Sunday. If it wasn't for the bad loss against Oakland this team would be contending with Minnesota for second. Their only other loss was to the Saints.

They have quite possibly the hardest schedule the rest of the way. Starting this week against Da Boys.

4. Dallas Cowboys | 5-2

Didn't want to put them this high but there is no one else worth placing here. The win this past weekend wasn't that impressive (over Seattle) but the win over Atlanta was much better. This week they get the high flying Eagles in a chance to prove they are contenders.

5. Arizona Cardinals | 4-3

Not sure what to make of this team but they will probably win the division there. Warner threw 5 picks and they still had a shot. The run defense caved last weekend and it needs to come back fast. If they lose to Chicago on Sunday then they fall from here to off the list.

6. Atlanta Falcons | 4-3

They hung in there against the Saints and beat the 49ers, Bears, and Dolphins earlier this season. Not quite as good as the top 4 teams in the conference but surely better than everyone else.


Not Quite Good Enough...

• New York Giants...embarrassed in Philly and have lost 3 straight. Other than win over Dallas no one else was any good.
• Green Bay Packers...couldn't keep up with Favre at home and haven't exactly beaten great teams but they have talent and could make a run for the wild card.

theGM's AFC Power Six

Last week the power six looked like this....not much is changing this week. With half the teams in last weeks top 6 on a bye week there isn't much you can do.


1. Indianapolis Colts | 7-0

As good a team as there is in the NFL right now. Even when Peyton can't get the ball in the endzone they beat a good team. San Fransisco played the game right and held the Colts to only 18 points but still couldn't do enough to win.

Can the Colts sustain their success without a running game? With games coming up against Houston, New England, and Baltimore we will learn plenty about the Colts over the next 3 weeks.

2. Denver Broncos | 6-1

Even with the loss I feel that as of right now they are still the second best team in the AFC. I wouldn't be surprised to see them lose to the Steelers next weekend but as of this writing they have been more impressive and consistent.

Baltimore exposed the defense a bit by staying with the running game and just flat out beating the Broncos but Denver still has the overall resume to remain my #2 team in the AFC.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers | 5-2

For a minute I wanted to move them up to #2 but then I looked at who they have beaten. Sure the win over Minnesota was impressive but before that they had beaten Tennessee, San Diego, Cleveland, and Detroit....not exactly a murderers row.

How good are the Steelers? Which team is the real team...the one that beat Minnesota or the one that struggles with Detroit? This Monday they get Denver....a win would be a good place to start.

4. Cincinnati Bengals | 5-2

Why are they behind the Steelers? Not sure actually. Looking at the schedules I would say that I am nuts. They have beaten far better teams (including the Steelers themselves) and have the same record. As of now I will leave them here but next week will be pretty telling as the Bengals get the Ravens while the Steelers get the Broncos.

5. New England Patriots | 5-2

Another team who didn't play this weekend but how can any other team pass over them? Not even sure what to say other than....no one outplayed the Pats this week.

6. Houston Texans | 5-3

One of the few teams left that hasn't had a bye yet they were introduced to the power 6 last week in this exact spot. A win over Buffalo is nothing to get excited about but the offense and defense have really started to pick it up over the last few weeks.

The running game works no matter who is running the ball and even with a hobbled Andre Johnson this team put up 31 points. Oh and Owen Daniels got hurt too. Now next week is a different story...Can they beat the Colts....not sure but it should be a good game.


Not Quite There Yet....

Baltimore Ravens...the win over Denver is a great start but with 3 losses (albeit to 3 good teams) they still have some work to do.

San Diego Chargers...they were closer last week than this week. When you play Oakland you HAVE to impress...and they didn't.

theGM's College Football Top 10

Wow...two weeks in a row! Now we are talking about consistency. Here is last week's in case you are curious. Numbers in parentheses are last weeks rankings.

1. Texas (2) 8-0 | When you absolutely embarrass two teams in consecutive weeks, on the road, that are considered challengers...you move up. There were a couple questionable performances early in the season but the last 3 weeks...no better team in the country.
2. Alabama (1) 8-0 | I know they didn't play so they shouldn't drop but lets remember how they looked the week before the bye...barely getting passed an average Tennessee team. Texas played great and Bama played okay. Now they get LSU...prove how good you are.
3. Florida (3) 8-0 | Beating Georgia is good but not that good. That is exactly the game I would hope Florida has. Not good enough to move up but they aren't moving down either. Won't move up anymore unless Texas or Bama fall.
4. LSU (5) 7-1 | Did what they were supposed to with a 42-0 beating of Tulane. Take away the Florida game and this team is possibly best in the country.
5. Oregon (10) 7-1 | Wow...who saw that coming? I expected the Ducks to win but they just took it to the Trojans. Last week I had USC #4 so Oregon gets a big bump after beating up on them.
6. Cincinnati (6) 8-0 | This team is winning without their starting quarterback right now...that's how good they are. Unfortunately they are beating Big East teams and no one cares. But no comes their tests...UConn this week, West Virginia next.
7. TCU (8) 8-0 | They handled UNLV 41-0....what else do you want. Not sure how good they are but I would love to see them play against the big boys to find out.
8. Georgia Tech (7) 8-1 | Minus the VaTech game and this is hands down the best team in the ACC. It's funny cause defenses know what is coming and yet they can't stop it.
9. Iowa (9) 9-0 | Most other undefeated teams would be much higher than this but that isn't necessarily right. They got TONS of help from the officials this past weekend and if they somehow make it to the National Title game they will be exposed.
10. Boise State (-) 8-0 | They have beaten everyone they have played including Oregon but they are still short of quality opponents. If they win them all they will surely move up.

Just Missed:

• Penn State - another good win on the road. Welcomes OSU this weekend...win that and they are probably back in the Top 10.
• Pittsburgh - didn't play this weekend...get Syracuse next weekend which won't help them. After that they get Notre Dame, Cincy, and WVU. Tough stretch.

NFC Power 6

AFC yesterday....NFC today....

1. New Orleans Saints | 6-0

Was there any doubt that this would be the top team? Best offense in the NFL and the best ball hawking defense (league leading 13 picks) in the league. The defense gives up points but that is only because the offense scores so much the opposition has to throw the ball all the time. I wasn't sure what this team was until this past weekend. Sure they had embarrassed the Jets and Giants but we still don't know much about those teams. The Dolphins (at home) I thought presented a unique challenge. And while the Saints failed early they passed with an A by the end. Next challenge is this Monday against the Falcons.

2. Minnesota Vikings | 6-1

All of a sudden the media is in love with Brett Favre again. You would think he is the only reason this team has won a game this year. Let me remind everyone that this same team went 10-6 and won the division last season WITHOUT #4. This team is barely hanging on to this #2 spot in my eyes. A bunch of really close games (albeit against good teams) shows that despite their 6-1 record they aren't as great as everyone thinks. Not a difficult schedule the rest of the way though so the sky is the limit.

3. Arizona Cardinals | 4-2

This surprises me as much as you. I didn't think the Cardinals were going to be any good this year and the beginning of the season looked like I was right. But they are better than most people are giving them credit for. And not just on offense...they are the #7 scoring defense in the league! Their one HUGE weakness is still the running game but Beanie Wells is more of a threat then they have had in a few years so defenses are still staying honest. Nicely setup schedule the rest of the way.

4. New York Giants | 5-2

What is this team? A couple weeks ago they were 5-0 but most of those wins came against weak teams. Now they have played 2 good teams and they are 5-2. Eli Manning is having a career year with average receivers but the running game is inconsistent. And defensively they are just average and with injuries. Not sure how far Eli can take this team once the weather gets bad. He struggles at home when the winds start swirling. Absolutely brutal schedule the rest of the way (@ Phil, SD, Atl, @ Den, Dal, Phil, @ Wash, Car, @ Minn). Ouch!

5. Green Bay Packers | 4-2

I wasn't expecting to put them on this list either but here they are. The offense is good but not great and the defense is about the same. They are shutting teams down but the schedule definitely plays a role in that (wins over Detroit, Cleveland, and St Louis). Its not a terrible schedule but it isn't easy either. Not a Super Bowl contender at this point...that's for sure.

6. Philadelphia Eagle | 4-2

After losing to Oakland can this team really be considered a top 6 team? I am not sure what to do here but comparing them to the other teams that are close I think they match up. When they actually show up to play they are good. McNabb is still a good quarterback and the defense is as good as any at putting pressure on the other team and turning the ball over. The running game is non existent which will keep them from making an impact late but for now they are in the running.

Just Missed

Dallas Cowboys...offense was great in their past 2 games but the defense is still suspect. Need to do more.

Atlanta Falcons...I almost put them in here but decided against it since their defense is struggling and is now injured. Will know more on Tuesday of next week.

AFC Power 6

A few weeks ago I told you that I don't like Power Rankings in sports because they compare the entire league as one when most leagues are distinctly separated by conferences. In the NFL each AFC division only plays one division in the NFC each season.

So why compare them against each other? Who cares if the Saints are better or worse than the Colts. We won't have to discuss that until the end of January.

For now let's look at each conference....the AFC today...NFC tomorrow.

1. Indianapolis Colts | 6-0

The Colts are the class of the AFC as of now. They have the #2 scoring offense in the league (#1 in AFC) and they are #2 in the NFL (and AFC) in scoring defense allowing only 12.8 points per game. With Peyton Manning having a career year and the defense playing as well as ever this has to be a Super Bowl favorite as of now. The schedule definitely gets tougher with New England, Baltimore, Denver, and San Fransisco still to come but as of now they are the top seed in the AFC.

2. Denver Broncos | 6-0

I mentioned above that the Colts are #2 in scoring defense, well the team ahead of them is the Broncos giving up a league low 11 points per game. That is impressive considering this defense couldn't stop anyone last season. Offensively this team is average or maybe a bit better. But they are still winning. Kyle Orton was thought to be a throw in for the Cutler trade but he is turning out to be a pretty good starter in that system. Like the Colts the schedule gets substantially tougher going forward with the Eagles, Colts, Chargers, Steelers, Ravens, and Giants still to come.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers | 5-2

At one point this team was 1-2 and was almost 0-3. Now the running game has picked up, the defense has stepped up, and the passing game is flying high. This is the best offense Pittsburgh has seen in years with Rashard Mendenhall getting yards on the ground and 3 good receivers (and a tight end) on the outside. They have an easier schedule than the first 2 teams and could push them for the top spots if things fall right. They are getting healthier and more complete each week.

4. Cincinnati Bengals | 5-2

Surprisingly they don't do anything great...but they do everything well enough. Carson Palmer is spreading the ball around and Cedric Benson (really...Cedric Benson??) is having a phenomenal year. The defense is what they were expected to be...solid not great. This team is a complete team at this point. We will learn a bit more in the coming weeks. They get a bye this week and then the Ravens and Steelers in back to back weeks.

5. New England Patriots | 5-2

I can't quite figure out this team. One week they struggle offensively the next they go off for multiple touchdowns no matter the weather or the time zone. The one thing I will say is that they have played an average at best schedule. Two winless teams the past two weeks have made them look like the best team in the league...but are they? They are top 5 in both offensive and defensive scoring...but consider the last two weeks again...7 points allowed and 94 points scored...against 2 teams that haven't won a game this season.

6. Houston Texans | 4-3

Here is a team that is still a huge question. They have beaten 2 good teams the past two weeks (Cincy and San Fran) but lost to questionable teams like the Jets and Jags. Offensively they are well balanced and can move the ball on anyone. But defensively they are substantially flawed. They are average against the pass and below average against the run. Their advantage is they can outscore you when they are on which keeps opposing offenses throwing the ball instead of running. They get Indy twice in the next 5 weeks so that should help clear some things up.

Just Missed:

San Diego Chargers....still need to show something but last week was a good start even though it was against Kansas City.

New York Jets....which team is the real team? Beating the Raiders badly or losing to Buffalo at home?


Check back tomorrow for the NFC Power 6.

theGM's College Football Top 10

After a couple week hiatus I am back and ready to post consistently again. Starting today I hope to have at least 3 posts a week up and maybe even more...who knows though.

Anyways a couple weeks ago I put my NCAA Top 10 up and meant to continue with it but alas I fell off the face of the earth. But here is the next installment in what will hopefully become a weekly thing.

1. Alabama - still my #1 team. They have beaten everyone on their schedule and have looked better doing it. Tennessee almost took them down but couldn't get it done. Not sure if they can beat Florida but right now they are better.
2. Texas - wins over Oklahoma and at Missouri are solid wins but the reason they jump over Florida is because they have looked better doing it. They have more chances to prove themselves starting this week AT Okie State.
3. Florida - still unbeaten and still might have the best chance to win it all but they have looked average the past couple weeks. A couple more hurdles to clear (this week vs Georgia to start) and they will be in Atlanta in the beginning of December.
4. USC - I hate putting them this high but of the top 1 loss teams they have played the best schedule. If they beat Oregon this weekend they will justify their high ranking.
5. LSU - their only loss is to Florida but they are still a good team. Completely shut down Auburn this past weekend and gets Bama in a couple weeks.
6. Cincinnati - their schedule hasn't been top notch as of yet but it is going to get better. IF they end the season unbeaten I think they could get a championship shot.
7. Georgia Tech - they had one slip up at Miami but have won all their other games. Not much left on their schedule til the ACC Championship game which they should win.
8. TCU - completely destroyed a good BYU team on the road. Probably the most likely BCS buster but would need substantial help to warrant a title bid.
9. Iowa - they haven't lost which means I should probably have them higher but I just can't. They are barely getting by in games and that matters to me.
10. Oregon - after their opening loss and struggle against Purdue every wrote them off but they haven't lost since the opening Thursday and they are looking very good.

Just Missed:

• Boise State - they just haven't done enough yet. And they can't do anymore. The Oregon win looks better and better every week but that is the only win they have. A good team that is getting pushed down due to their conference...sounds familiar.
• Pittsburgh - they have lost 1 game and are playing as good as anyone. Last 3 games are tough and could push them higher IF they win out. Good team that no one is talking about.
• Penn State - Other than the slip up against Iowa which doesn't look so bad each week they are playing good. Took Michigan to task on Saturday in the Big House. Still have games remaining to improve their status.

Looking for an inexpensive gift??

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The keychains are quality material and made to last. The only problem that I found with them was that some of the logos were out of date. For instance the Washington Capitals logo was from a few years ago as they did not have the updated logo. But for most sports fans this won't matter as their teams logo hasn't changed in decades.

I would recommend Wholesale Keychain to any one looking for an inexpensive gift for the sports fan on their list!

NFL Power Rankings....sort of

Any sports power rankings are flawed in my opinion. They always look at a league as a whole. Who cares where someone thinks the Eagles rank in relation to the Steelers. It doesn't matter.

Just like in MLB the NFL teams do not play many games against the opposing conference. Each division plays one division from the opposing conference and that is it until the Super Bowl.

So what we need to do is look at the Power Rankings for each conference separately. So let's do that now:

AFC:

1. Baltimore Ravens ~ 3-0

The first place team in the AFC North has looked really good on both sides of the ball. My only concern is that they haven't played a real tough schedule as they have played Kansas City and Cleveland. But they did play San Diego and won that game. Defensively this team looks great although not as good as last season. Offensively they have shocked everyone but also consider that they have played three VERY questionable defenses.

Overall I think the jury is still out on the Ravens a little bit but that goes for everyone.

2. New York Jets ~ 3-0

Unreal. I picked the Jets to go 3-13 this season or something like that. Everyone knew the defense would be good but I didn't expect this. The competition has been okay with wins over Houston, New England, and Tennessee. The names look better then what those teams might be this year but still.

This week the Jets get New Orleans in the Superdome. What a game!

3. Indianapolis Colts ~ 3-0

This is one of my Super Bowl picks (along with New Orleans) and so far they have looked solid. The defense is still a slight question but the offense has been clicking. The game this past weekend against the Cardinals was probably the best they have looked overall. Bob Sanders hasn't even played yet this season so the defense is at least better then in the past when they couldn't do anything without him.

The question with Indy will continue to be their defense and rushing offense which has been underwhelming.

4. Cincinnati Bengals ~ 2-1

Yes I know the Broncos are 3-0 AND beat the Bungals but that was a fluke and we all know it. The Bengals followed that lose up with a win AT Green Bay and then home against the Steelers this past week. The defense is good and the offense is really improving. How about Cedric Benson? He has really shown that he can play in this league when given the complete opportunity.

The win over Pittsburgh was huge and should get this team some respect.

5. San Diego Chargers ~ 2-1

Again I am showing no respect for the Broncos as the Chargers trail them in the division but come on how can you like the Broncos. My biggest concern with the Chargers is their defense is still bad. I thought they would return to what they were 2 season ago but they look very similar to last season. They also had significant trouble with the Raiders in week 1 which is concerning considering how the Raiders looked the past 2 weeks.

Another tough game this week in Pittsburgh.

6. Pittsburgh Steelers ~ 1-2

Sure they are only 1-2 and in theory could be 0-3 if Tennessee was the least bit competent. But with Polamalu healthy this team is much better. He will be back soon enough and this team will return to prominence. The offense needs to get some sort of running game going or they are going to be in trouble. Big Ben needs to carry this team for now.

They get the nod over New England because the Patriots have looked even worse in their games.


Check in tomorrow for the NFC Rankings

TheGM's Top 10

Now that we have actually been able to see who is any good in college football I will put out my first poll of the year. I don't have a huge problem with polls coming out in preseason as it gives us something to talk about but I didn't feel like I could put together an accurate poll so I didn't do one until now.

1. Alabama - sure Florida is the big #1 but they haven't played the schedule that Bama has played. Not that their schedule is anything to write home about but it is better than the Gators.
2. Florida - If I would have done a preseason poll they surely would have been #1 and still could get there. Hopefully Tebow is able to come back soon though.
3. Texas - The only game they have played so far is at home against an average Texas Tech team. I think this team could, should, and will run the table and get to Pasadena for the National Title game but as of now they haven't proved anything.
4. LSU - I can't stand the SEC sometimes but lets face the truth and say there isn't a conference in the country that comes CLOSE to the SEC in terms of competition. Wins at Washington and at Mississippi State get LSU to the top 5.
5. Va Tech - the first one loss team makes its appearance...ahead of other undefeated's?? Yup. Remember their only loss came against the team I have at #1. Not too bad with wins over Nebraska and Miami under their belt.
6. Houston - I thought the Oklahoma State win was more of a fluke then a good win but they followed it up with a win over Texas Tech. They get Miss State in 2 weeks and their conference slate but they seem like a good team.
7. Cincy - They are 4-0 and have beaten a few good teams but there are still questions. I think the Oreg State win was their best so far but Fresno isn't a bad team. They can't afford to lose a game though.
8. Boise State - Oregon was obviously a big win and winning at Fresno last week was important. A weak schedule the rest of the way means the only way they move up is if other teams move down.
9. USC - I know they lost to Washington but you had to see that coming. The reason I still have them here is because of a big win AT Ohio State. Also their starting quarterback (freshman or not he is still the starter) was out for the Wash game.
10. TCU - Not a great schedule but wins AT UVa and AT Clemson are solid and better than most other teams.

Teams On the Verge:

• Oklahoma - they have not beaten anyone of any value yet. IF they can beat Miami then we will talk but until then they are on the outside looking in.
• Michigan - continue winning. So far all 4 wins (not super convincing) have been at home. Win a couple big games on the road.
• Ohio State - had the USC game won and blew it. Haven't played anyone else of interest. But you keep winning and that is all that can be asked of you.
• Kansas - sure they are undefeated but they have yet to play anyone decent.

5 Games You Don't Want to Miss This Weekend

This is the first full weekend of football this year and I am sure everyone is looking forward to sitting in front of the TV and just watching football all weekend. But unfortunately the Saturday slate of games is pretty weak. There is only 1 game featuring two ranked teams....OSU vs USC.

Sunday should be better but even there you have questions because you just don't know which games are going to be worth turning on.

So I am going to give my best 5 games to watch this weekend. Enjoy the weekend!


Saturday:

Notre Dame at Michigan

Two programs that everyone loves to hate which were down in the past couple years. As much as many of us would LOVE for these programs to always struggle I think they are both heading in the right direction.

This is a tougher game for Notre Dame then people think. Michigan still gets good recruiting classes and still has athletes. And let's really consider who Notre Dame has beat in the past couple seasons...UCLA, Duke, Stanford, San Diego State, Michigan (last year), Purdue, Stanford, Washington, Navy, Hawaii, and Nevada.

WOW...that is weak!

Now Michigan was terrible last season and I think Rich Rod is a terrible coach who will NEVER win a Big Ten Championship (he couldn't win consistently in the Big East...how is he going to succeed in the Big Ten) but he will have limited success.

I think Notre Dame is highly over rated and they will lose by double digits today in the Big House.


USC at Ohio State

Not sure what to make of this game. Freshman quarterback headed into very hostile environment in a retribution game from last seasons beat down by USC in LA.

But Ohio State is replacing starters all over the field and struggled mightily with Navy last week. Remember though that Navy is better than many D-1 teams so that shouldn't have been a huge surprise...they are good.

I just don't see how Ohio State can win this game. They obviously have the motivation but I don't think they have the players. I am not sure what the numbers are but I would imagine they are replacing at least 12 starters on both sides of the ball....not good when you struggle in Week 1 and then get USC in week 2.

USC by 10.


Sunday:

Miami at Atlanta

The two biggest surprises last season start the season against each other. Personally I am down on both teams although the more I look at Atlanta the more I like. As for the first week....I think it is a crap shoot. You can pick any game and you will probably find something to question between the two teams.

This game is no different. Atlanta has a great running game, a solid passing game, and a average (or worse) defense. Miami is an average team across the board but they have the attitude.

In this game...the first week of the season...I take the Dolphins.


Washington at NY Giants

In my personal opinion the Redskins are going to be a team that surprises this year. No one is picking them to win the the division or even compete for that matter. But remember this....Jason Campbell is (I believe) entering his FIRST season in something like 7 or 8 where he is working with the SAME OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR as the year before.

That is going to be HUGE. Then you add into that a full year of DeAngelo Hall and the addition of Albert Haynesworth and I think this team makes the playoffs.

In week 1 though they have to travel to the Meadowlands (where Eli generally struggles) to play the defending division champs. Questions abound the Giants offense...can Jacobs carry more of the load and stay healthy? Who steps up and replaces Plaxico Burress? Can the offensive line stay healthy for another entire season?

That is a lot to wonder about....I think they do okay against the Skins in week 1 though and I have the G-Men.


Chicago at Green Bay

Jay Cutler gets his first crack at an actual defense with his stellar receiving core. Against one of the better pass defenses in the league last season too boot. Fortunately for Cutler he has Matt Forte in the backfield with him and with the Packers moving to a 3-4 I think he could have success this week.

But will that be enough? Chicago was one of the WORST pass defenses in the league last season and there is no reason to think they will be much better this year. Aaron Rodgers could have his best game of the season in week 1 this year.

I like the Packers at home but it should be a good close game.

Super Bowl, Playoff, and Award Picks

NFL Super Bowl, Playoff, and Awards Picks podcast (if link doesn't work click here)


This is the final preview podcast and it is only 10 minutes long so take a listen.

We give you all the playoff teams (see below) as well as our choices for MVP and some other awards.

And then we give you our predictions for each playoff round and the Super Bowl.
Verb's Playoff Teams:

• Indianapolis
• Baltimore
• New England
• San Diego
• Pittsburgh
• Houston

• New Orleans
• Green Bay
• NY Giants
• Seattle
• Philadelphia
• Minnesota

theGM's Playoff Teams:

• Pittsburgh
• Indianapolis
• New England
• San Diego
• Cincinnati
• Houston

• Minnesota
• New Orleans
• NY Giants
• Seattle
• Green Bay
• Washington

We agree on 5 out of the 6 teams in each division. I like Washington over Philly and Cincy over Baltimore.

But after that....we don't agree at all.

Of the 4 teams in the Conference Championship games...we only agree on 1....New Orleans.

Take a listen and tell us where we went wrong or right.


Oh and in case you were curious...here are our Award predictions:

MVP -

Verb: Tom Brady
theGM: Drew Brees

Defensive Player of the Year -

Verb: DeMarcus Ware
theGM: Albert Haynesworth

Coach of the Year -

Verb: Jim Mora Jr.
theGM: Marvin Lewis

Off Rookie of the Year -

Verb: Mark Sanchez
theGM: Chris Wells

Def Rookie of the Year -

Verb: Aaron Curry
theGM: Aaron Curry

Biggest Surprise Team -

Verb: NY Jets
theGM: Bengals

Most Disappointing Team -

Verb: Miami
theGM: Tennessee

AFC/NFC West Division Preview Podcast

AFC/NFC West Division Preview podcast (if link does not work click here and scroll down)


This is our last day of previews as we tackle the sad and underwhelming AFC and NFC West divisions.

No real surprises here. We both have the Chargers and the Seahawks. Verb is a little higher on the Chiefs and Cardinals then I am. I am a little higher on the 49ers and the Raiders than he is.

Either way...take a listen and come back and let us know what you think.

Also check back later today and hear our Playoff Picks and our Award picks.

AFC/NFC East Season Previews

AFC/NFC East Division Preview podcast (if link doesn't work click here and scroll down)



Now we get to the most popular divisions and quite possible the toughest divisions in the league....the AFC and NFC East.

Verb and I talk about all 8 teams and give our predictions of what will happen. And for the most part we agree about these divisions too.

We both have the Patriots and Giants winning the divisions. After that it is a free for all. Verb has the Eagles finishing second AND getting a wild card berth. Me...I have (my team) the Eagles finishing fourth in the division.

But that isn't even the most surprising part....listen and hear what I think the Eagles record will be. You will think I am crazy.

The AFC East is the Patriots and everyone else. I really don't think any of the other teams in the division even have a winning record. And Verb isn't too high on them either.

Take a few minutes (about 30) and listen to the podcast and then come and tell me how crazy I am with my NFC East picks.

AFC/NFC South Season Preview Podcast

AFC/NFC South Preview Podcast (if that link doesn't work click here and scroll down)


Yesterday we took a look at the North divisions and today we move onto the South divisions.

Neither Verb nor I are believers in the Titans without Haynesworth but both of us believe in Peyton and the Colts.

In the NFC we both believe in the Saints but after that the division is a mess.

What do you think? Who wins these divisions?

AFC and NFC North Season Preview

AFC/NFC North Season Preview (if that link doesn't work click here)


Verb and I went through and recorded our NFL preview podcasts on Friday last week. Today you get the North division previews with the South coming tomorrow, East on Wednesday, and the West and our season picks on Thursday.

Both Verb and I took Green Bay and Minnesota to finish in the top 2 in the NFC North although I have Minnesota winning the division while he has the Pack.

In the AFC I have the Steelers and a surprise team (have to listen to find out) and Verb has the Ravens winning the division and the Steelers getting 2nd.

Take a listen and see what you think...do you agree or disagree? Tell us below.

5 Fantasy Quarterbacks to Avoid and 5 to Take

Over the next 10 or so days I will post about some fantasy football topics here and do some fantasy football podcasts. Today we will look at Quarterbacks to avoid and to take....

5 to Avoid:

1. Kurt Warner

Not saying you should avoid him altogether but he is a HUGE injury risk. If you take him you need to take a very good backup or take Matt Leinart late in your draft. He has an injured hip and has said that he won't be 100% healthy until after the season....if that doesn't raise red flags I don't know what will.

Also reports are he has looked slow in camp with his feet. That presents an enormous problem as well since he was never even remotely fast to begin with. I would definitely take quarterbacks like Rodgers, Rivers, and Schaub before I even consider touching Warner.

2. Tony Romo

He might have a great season but without Terrell Owens I am not touching him. I know he has put up numbers and has been good (except in defining moments) but the Cowboys scare me this season. Roy Williams is NOT TO and will never be TO. And after that you have Crayton, Austin, and Hurd....are you drafting any of them?? No I don't think you are.

Jason Witten is still there and the running backs will catch some balls but I would much rather take Matt Ryan or Matt Schaub before I take Romo.

3. Donovan McNabb

Some people want to say McNabb finally has the receivers to win.....really?? Where? Their top 3 receivers, Jackson, Curtis, and Maclin, are all short slot receivers. None of them are going to catch many touchdown passes. And McNabb is NOT going to run for many touchdowns anymore.

Personally I am a big McNabb and Eagles fan so saying don't pick McNabb is hard but they are going to have trouble scoring...especially through the air.

4. Matt Cassel

Does this really need an explanation? I mean you go from Moss, Welker, Faulk to Bowe and .......! The offensive line is bad and the running game is average at best. How Cassel is a top 10 fantasy quarterback is beyond me.

The ONLY reason he MIGHT be fantasy worthy is because the defense is bad and he might have to throw a lot to stay in games.

5. Kyle Orton

This probably seems obvious after his preseason performance but it goes deeper than that. First of all the best receiver on the team, Brandon Marshall, doesn't want to play and isn't playing right now. Second it is Kyle Orton! And third their schedule is actually very difficult against the pass. They play ONLY FOUR games against teams that ranked in the bottom half of pass defenses last season....those games are against the Chargers and Chiefs. That's it and the Chargers should be better this season.

But like Cassel I could see Orton as a fantasy option because he is going to have to throw the ball cause the Broncos defense is a joke.


5 to Take:

1. Peyton Manning

I heard someone on NFL.com say that Peyton would be a bust this season and I can't figure out how. I am not saying take him over Brees and you probably shouldn't take him ahead of Brady but after that he is the only quarterback I would consider in the first 4 rounds. Personally I might take him ahead of Brady.

He has a complete stable of HEALTHY wide receivers this season. A healthy (and decent) offensive line and a solid running game again this season. AND he was healthy this preseason. I know preseason games don't mean much but watching Peyton and Co. move the ball against Philly was a treat.

2. Matt Ryan

Another quarterback that some people are down on because of Michael Turner. But (as you will see in a couple days) I am down on Turner so I think Ryan will have to carry this team a little more this season. Add to that the addition of Tony Gonzalez AND a porous defense and you have a quarterback who should throw the ball plenty.

3. David Garrard

Here is a guy who finished in the top 10 in fantasy quarterbacks last season while throwing to the likes of Matt Jones. This year you get Torry Holt and Troy Williamson. Sure Williamson is a hit or miss (typically miss) but he has been looking good in camp and gives the team a deep threat. Just having him on the field will open up the underneath game for Holt and the tight ends.

Garrard will also run for a couple touchdowns during the season. If you don't get one of the top quarterbacks I would wait on a guy like Garrard (or the next 2 names).

4. Matt Hasselbeck

A year ago he was going in the top 5-6 in fantasy quarterbacks. Now he is out of the top 15 and pushing 20. Why? He along with all his receivers and lineman were hurt last season. Now he is healthy, the receivers are healthy, and they added TJ Houshmanzadeh (I spelled that without looking it up).

While the coaching staff is going to want to run the ball I don't think Julius Jones and (recently signed) Edgerrin James are going to carry this team. Matt and the receivers will have big seasons.

5. Trent Edwards

Maybe you don't risk him as your starter but if you take a quarterback like Jay Cutler this would be a great insurance policy. He gets a new weapon in Terrell Owens and a new offensive system that is going to keep defenses off track. The addition of TO will be huge for this offense. He will absolutely open up the running game and the other side of the field for Lee Evans.

Again...don't make Edwards your starter but I would consider taking either Garrard or Hasselbeck as my starter with Edwards as my backup. It could pay off in the long run.


In the coming days we will look at RB and WR in the same format. I will also give you a couple draft results posts that explain my reasoning.

Check out the podcasts that will be coming soon. I will dissect each position even further there.

Who's Gonna Sign Vick?

Michael Vick says he is close to signing with a team somewhere doing something but there were no specifics given.

So who might be interested in Vick? Who knows. But more importantly is where SHOULD Vick sign?

There are things that Vick should be looking for and things that teams should be considering before they sign him.

First from a team's perspective:

~ They should have a strong coach and management team in place to handle the hundreds of questions each day about Vick. If you get a coach that can't handle the pressure then you are just killing your chances.

~ They should have a definitive starter in place. You don't bring in a former starting NFL quarterback if you don't have a starter in place. This eliminates the 49ers as they have the coach that can handle it BUT they have no quarterback there so it makes Vick a viable option to start and everyone can agree (even Vick probably) that he is not ready to start in the NFL.

~ And honestly they need another distraction. If they have someone else there to take the attention away from Vick than that is all the better for the team.


Now from Vick's perspective:

~ A team that will give you a chance to play and to play where you want to play. You aren't turning into Slash so don't go to a team that only wants to use you like that. Look for a team that will allow you to be the backup quarterback and help with formations like the Wildcat.

~ Look for a team that isn't in a traditional media market. The fewer reporters at the facility the better. Sure for the first couple weeks it is going to be a zoo and at times it will be again but the further the team is from traditional media hubs the better.

~ Consider a coach that is going to help you grow. Go to a team with a coach that is proven and knows what he is doing and isn't on the hot seat. If you go to a team with a coach that could be fired you are just creating even more tension.


So with all that said let's examine the teams that would work best:

(and remember that even though none of the "experts" or "informants" have heard anything it doesn't mean he isn't close to signing with any of these teams.....no one knew TO was headed to Buffalo until it was announced!)

~ New Orleans Saints - Vick can be the backup and create an incredible Wildcat package with Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas. Sean Payton is definitely capable of being both the stable coach AND a distraction. And Drew Brees is definitely the starter there with no doubts. But to me the biggest advantage is that New Orleans has bigger problems than the Saints and who they sign. The media is surely going to get involved but not in the way that the Dallas media would be involved.

~ Seattle Seahawks - He would be able to compete for the backup job and learn from a solid QB in Hasselbeck. Seattle is about as far from the media hubs as he can get so that works. Jim Mora just took over so he has a few years til he is on the hot seat and he knows and likes Vick. As for the team perspective...Vick would solidify a questionable running game. Line him up with Matt in the backfield and Julius Jones and no one would know what to do.

~ New England Patriots - Belichek will surely keep the media under control which would be good and Brady is obviously going to be there so no pressure to become the number 1. My problem here is that I don't think the Pats are interested too much in the Wildcat formation other than stopping it. And if you aren't going to run that offense why bring Vick on?

~ Buffalo Bills - This does not fit all the criteria I mentioned above but it does some. The things it lacks are a proven QB and a steady coach. But with TO you have another huge distraction to take the heat from Vick. Hell if I am the Bills and I sign Vick I would ASK TO to make a scene and do something stupid. You know the media will follow the guy so get the focus off Vick and onto someone who wants it anyway.

~ Pittsburgh Steelers - I am not sold on this idea either but Tomlin might consider the Wildcat formation IF he has Vick there. But the team and community can obviously support Michael if he comes there. But I don't think this will happen.


And just to help here are some teams that SHOULD NOT SIGN VICK:

~ Washington Redskins - if they sign Vick you can kiss their season goodbye. They don't have a coach or a quarterback that could handle it. As an Eagles fan I am okay if they sign him because that is one less team that I need to worry about.

~ San Fransisco 49ers - They don't have a quarterback and Vick can't be a starter this season. Not in my opinion at least. There is no real locker room presence there either to help keep the attention away from Vick.

~ Dallas Cowboys - We all know Wade Philips is probably gone after this season unless he wins the Super Bowl so the coach is not exactly safe. Add to that Romo and how much people already doubt him there and you have a really volatile situation. This is not out of the realm of possibility though but it would be a mistake.

~ Minnesota Vikings - For much the same reason as the 49ers above. No coach and no QB. If Favre would have come aboard I think it would have made sense but not without Favre.

~ Denver Broncos - Rookie coach, pain in the neck WR, and a questionable QB situation. All reasons NOT to sign Vick.


I personally feel Vick should be signed and he should be signed now. If you bring him in now you get the initial media frenzy done before the preseason starts. The frenzy will pick up again when he plays in the final preseason games but will subside before the season starts. And then assuming he sits out the first 6 weeks of the season you won't have many media issues til then. Hopefully by then some other things have happened in the league and the focus is only placed back on Vick for a week or two.

If you wait and sign him in a month you are creating a serious problem for your team by bringing in a distraction right before the season. Get him in now and get the worst of it out of the way.

Welcome Back Podcast

Finally Verb and I are back on the air with our weekly podcast. This weeks episode is about 35 minutes and we discuss plenty.

• Matt Holiday a Cardinal
• Roy Halladay going anywhere?
• X-Games chatter
• Jeremy Mayfield vs Nascar
• Lance and the Tour de France
• NFL Draft Schedule change
• Michael Vick...should he be allowed back?
• and The UFL

Honestly the longest segment there was definitely about Vick.

Take a listen and let us know what you think.

Is It Too Soon For Fantasy Football Talk?

NAH!!

Just this past weekend I really started getting back into fantasy football mode. I read some information on ESPN's website and started working on the two leagues where I serve as commissioner.

And I have something to say.....

I really like Auction Drafts!



I had never done one before. I knew about them but always just did snake drafts. Honestly I didn't know enough about the strategy or idea behind the auction draft style to do one.

Well I still don't know enough about the strategy but I enjoyed not having to rely on draft position to get certain players. I only did a mock draft but you can be sure that I will be doing at least 2-3 auction drafts in free leagues this year and potentially becoming commissioner of a league next season.

I think the best way to do an auction draft is to get 3-5 really good players and find enough talented and cheap guys to fill in the rest of your roster. I probably stretched for a player or two in my mock draft but I thought I did okay.

Last season I was in 20 different fantasy football leagues. Most of them free leagues on ESPN but there were 2 play for money leagues that I took (at some points) a little too seriously.

Last year I vowed that I would not do 20 leagues again this year....and so far (I repeat...so far) I have not done any (other than my 2 pay leagues).

But that is going to change and it is going to change in a big way. I need to do research....trust me its research. Now that I have found auction style drafts and want to start an auction style league next year I have to know the best strategy. So I am going to do that.

I will build some teams through the auction drafts that fit multiple styles and strategies. And once I figure out which way works best I will use that for the years to come.

So is it too early to talk fantasy football?

Well.....personally I think the question is....

Is it EVER to early to talk fantasy football?

US Beats Spain....World Cup Next???

Now lets not get too excited about this but the US Soccer team showed up yesterday and beat the #1 ranked team in the world, Spain. The Spaniards had not lost since 2006...15 straight victories (a world record)....35 game unbeaten streak (tied world record)....overall 32-0-3 in their last 35 games. And they hadn't allowed a goal in their first 3 games in the Confederation Cup.

And in walks a team that looked terrible against Italy and Brazil losing a combined 6-1. Hell they only got into the second round based on a tiebreaker and most would say they didn't deserve it.

But they showed the world that they were not going to be pushed around by Spain...that they weren't afraid of them.

I am a big soccer fan....enjoy the MLS....LOVE the World Cup....and when I can watch I enjoy anything in the UEFA category...whether its the Champions League, La Liga, or EPL it is all enjoyable.

BUT let's not get too excited about this win. I mean really if these teams play 10 games the Americans are winning 1. Fortunately for them that was yesterday.

It was the classic trap game for Spain. They came out of a relatively easy group and were looking ahead to Brazil on Sunday...they didn't see this coming.

It reminds me of Appy State over Michigan a few years ago. Very similar in my opinion and YES I do think that is an accurate comparison. Maybe you say something like Colorado over Oklahoma or Vanderbilt over Florida but either way it is an average team beating a great team.

Does this give the Americans hope for next summer's World Cup? I think it gives them hope that they can compete with anyone.

BUT if anyone thinks they can win the World Cup.....you need to be admitted and placed in a small padded room.

Point Guard's Not Worth High Pick in Draft?

Here is a story from Scott Howard-Cooper on SI.com that says it doesn't make sense to draft point guards too high in the draft because they are not the deciding factors in the Finals.

If you haven't read it yet it basically says that the point guards on all the Championship teams since 1994 were only minor parts of the team.

Here is that list:

2009 -- Derek Fisher - Lakers
2008 -- Rajon Rondo - Celtics
2007 -- Tony Parker - Spurs
2006 -- Jason Williams - Heat
2005 -- Tony Parker - Spurs
2004 -- Chauncey Billups - Pistons
2003 -- Tony Parker - Spurs
2002 -- Derek Fisher and Lindsey Hunter - Lakers
2001 -- Derek Fisher - Lakers
2000 -- Ron Harper - Lakers
1999 -- Avery Johnson - Spurs
1998 -- Ron Harper - Bulls
1997 -- Ron Harper - Bulls
1996 -- Ron Harper - Bulls
1995 -- Kenny Smith - Rockets
1994 -- Kenny Smith with Sam Cassell - Rockets


No remember that I am not an NBA expert but personally I think you have to keep a couple things in mind when looking at the teams that DID win those years.

All those teams had another star or two that helped win the title. The Rockets had Drexler and Olajuwon....Bulls had Michael and Scottie....Spurs had Robinson, Duncan, and others...Lakers had Shaq, Kobe, and Pau.....the Heat had Dwayne and Shaq....and the Celtics had Pierce, KG, and Allen.

So really the point guard didn't matter on any of those teams. But I would say this....without Billups the Pistons don't win and without Parker I think the Spurs struggle mightily a few years.

I think the point of his article is that a point guard doesn't guarantee anything....well no shit! But who else do you take??

Basically it ends like this....you need either 2 stars (Shaq/Kobe) or 1 start and 2 very good players (Duncan/Parker/Ginobili or Kobe/Pau/Lamar) to win a title in the NBA.

But the point guard CAN BE one of the players. If you put another really good player with Chris Paul and David West and you have a LEGITIMATE title contender.

So I would absolutely take one of the point guards that are highly regarded in this years draft if that was the best player available. A really great point guard (Chauncey Billups) will make any team better.


Proof...how did Detroit do after Billups left and how did the Nuggets do before he got there??

NHL Screwing Up AGAIN!!

The NHL has hit the jackpot the past couple seasons with the Winter Classic on New Year's Day. Then they hit the lottery again with a great 7 game series in the Stanley Cup Finals plus great games prior to the finals featuring Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin.

And yet word is coming in that the NHL is looking to hold a double header on New Years Day featuring 2 outdoor games. One in Calgary and one in Boston.

Exciting right?

I am not convinced. Personally I think they should do this no more than 1 time per year. Hell I think it would be okay to play the outdoor game only once every other year.

You give me people too much and force it on them it can backfire. Plus is NBC really going to show both games on New Years?? The ratings weren't that good to justify giving them 6 straight hours on a big TV day.

I think the Winter Classic is a good idea and is a good marketing tool for the league. But keep it to only one game a year. And don't be afraid to skip a year if the ratings are low or the fans don't get as excited.

It's Been a While

Wow has it really been over 3 weeks since something was posted here??

Well I am back...I might be flying solo now as I am not sure Verb is coming back but I am going to try and post something at least a couple times a week.


Today's topic:

The NBA Finals



If you have ever read this blog before you know that I don't think very highly of the NBA. I don't watch any regular season games and I very rarely watch any games at all...even the finals.

But this year I find myself intrigued by the Finals matchup. Dwight Howard has become a fan favorite due to his performances in the Dunk Contest and the Lakers are well...they are the Lakers.

Personally though I am interested to see if Jameer Nelson can play. I remember his senior year at St. Joe's when he took them deep into the NCAA Tourney. Being that I live less then 2 hours from Philly it was good to see them get that far. And then Nelson got destroyed by the "experts" about his NBA abilities....well....now how do you feel about his skills?

I am probably like most of the people in this country in my rooting interests...

GO MAGIC!

Penguins Whine Like Wide Receivers!

One of the things in sports that bothers me more than anything else is when a wide receiver gets up and asks for a pass interference penalty.

Well the Pittsburgh Penguins do that as much as TJ Houshmanzadeh anymore.

Last night I watched the Caps/Pens game (which was amazing by the way) and at one point Evgeni Malkin fell down in the offensive zone. When he got up he put his hands up and said something to the referee.

SHUT UP MALKIN!

Just get up and skate to the other end and play hockey. Your team is turning into soccer players. Anytime you get bumped to the ice you want a penalty called.

And your captain....Sidney Crosby...is ridiculous. All he does is whine to the refs and linesmen ALL GAME LONG. During any stoppage in play he is talking to the guys in stripes. Have a conversation with your teammates instead.

During the playoffs the Penguins have whined about faceoff technique, hits, stick curves, penalties, and hats thrown on the ice. SHUT UP...PLAY HOCKEY.

This is a sport where you get cut, you get stitched up, and you get back to it. There is no sitting out because of a twisted ankle, sprained knee, or separated shoulders. And yet the Penguins whine like they are playing a match on a pitch in England.

It is sickening!

Are You Tired of Brett Favre?

Lots of people are tired of Brett Favre and this will he play in 09 saga. I am not. I think this is great.

I don't care if he plays in 09. And personally feel that if he comes back to the Vikings than that is absolutely unacceptable from a player who spent so many years building the rivalry between the Packers and Vikes.

But I like to hear all the discussion. It actually makes me laugh. Did Favre send xrays to the Vikings? What did he say to them? He says he isn't going to play, do you believe him?

It keeps the NFL in the news and it is better then hearing about other things in football like who the Patriots are going to sign or why the Bengals still suck.

I think it is great for sports betting.

And most of all....it is much more interesting than the NBA or MLB!

Manny Ramirez Suspended for 50 Games

Manny Ramirez was suspended for using a banned substance.

Is anyone still surprised about this stuff?

I admit that I was a little surprised but hearing more of the information there isn't a way to guarantee what Manny's intentions were. It wasn't steroids and he has passed multiple drug tests in the past few years.

So was he just lucky previously?

I don't know. I tend to believe people when they say something. I always give people the benefit of the doubt which sometimes gets me in trouble but it is who I am.

Personally I am like Ramirez. I know the Red Sox fans hate him and now most baseball fans are upset with him. But I still like him. I think it is good for a player not to take the sport so seriously that it turns into a job. Sure he pissed of the Red Sox by not wanting to play there and sitting out games but so what. Everyone is tired of the Red Sox and their fans.

Time will tell with Manny and if he used steroids or not. But I would say this to everyone...let a guy make his case before you determine if he is guilty.

The NHL Is Good and Bad Right Now

During what should be the greatest time for hockey fans and the NHL there is trouble brewing. If you have paid any attention to ESPN or the NHL playoffs you probably saw that the Coyotes filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

Well the league isn't happy about that because they have been giving the Coyotes money and working with them so that they could make the bills every month.

And to make matters worse the Coyotes owner was working behind the NHL's back to broker a deal to sell the team to a Canadian business man that Gary Bettman is not a fan of.

The best part of all this....this all went down as the NHL and Bettman were getting ready to sell the team to Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf.

So while fans and media could be focused on Capitals/Penguins and Ovechkin/Crosby we get distracted by this ridiculous scene.

Personally I don't care who owns the Coyotes. In fact why the hell is the NHL playing in Arizona anyway? For that matter why are they in Miami? Two of the hottest areas in the country and there are ICE hockey teams that have the goal of playing into June. I say close down both teams and turn the players loose into free agency.

OR do what everyone else wants to see and put another team in Canada. I don't know or care what would be the best option but having more Canadian teams can not be a bad thing.

Either way put this issue to bed right away and let's focus on the fight for Lord Stanley's Cup. You have the 2 most electric players in the league right now going head to head in the playoffs.

Let's focus on that!

A Use For The NBA

I finally found a use for the NBA last night....

I couldn't fall asleep last night so I turned on the playoff game that was on (Denver/New Orleans I believe)....

And I was out in seconds!!!

Thoughts on the NFL Draft

Yesterday I gave you a brief look into my draft thoughts so lets dive a little deeper today.

Detroit Lions:

Aaron Curry has come out and said he would take less money than last years number 1 pick. Detroit...you NEED playmakers AND you NEED cap space. Sign Curry and take him with the #1 pick. Don't touch Stafford. Yes you have nothing to lose but he WILL NOT be your starting quarterback in 5 years. And if he is you will not have won more than 5 games in any of those years.

Anquan Boldin trade:

Why is he still a Cardinal? I mean really. What do the Giants, Eagles, Titans, or anyone else have to lose? The teams have plenty of draft choices so what is the point of hoping you get a guy that MIGHT help your team in a few years when you can trade for a player like Anquan who WILL help your team this year. The Eagles and Giants are probably just an Anquan away from competing for a Super Bowl so for them not to got get him is ridiculous.

Andre Smith:

Who in their right mind would waste a pick on this guy? He is too big a risk in my opinion to take early in the draft. I don't care if he turns into the next Orlando Pace (which he won't) he isn't worth the risk. The best teams in the NFL draft players that are a little safer then what other teams will do. They might pass over a guy like Smith and opt for a different player who might not have the same skill level but might be just a step behind but less of a risk. It isn't surprising that as of now I have heard Bengals or Raiders for this clown as those teams are the jokes of the league usually.

Sanchez vs Stafford:

Now you can take my opinion for what it is worth considering I was a Ryan Leaf over Peyton believer but I like Sanchez much more than Stafford. Stafford never really showed me anything at Georgia. He was much like JaMarcus Russell at LSU, a great talent that doesn't seem able to put it all together. I know the question on Sanchez is has he played enough and he surely wouldn't be rated this high in a year with better quarterbacks available but he has shown more in 1 year than Stafford showed in 3. I would take Sanchez long before Stafford.

NFL Draft Talk and Other Happenings

I have been really busy of late and haven't had a ton of time to post here but with the draft coming up I figured I should say something.

So here it is....the GM Says:

1. Lots of talk lately about who the Lions will (or should) take with the first pick. I heard someone say that they shouldn't take Stafford cause the risk is too big. If he fails it will destroy the franchise. Really? Can it get any worse?

I really hate the idea of taking a quarterback #1 overall because they cost too freaking much and rarely pan out. BUT in this case maybe it makes sense. I mean if he fails is it really that big of a deal....they can't get any worse....

Can they??

2. Baseball is already getting boring. How anyone can sit there and actually watch a game is beyond me. Whether you are there in person or at home watching in HD it is brutal to watch without great conversation....and if you are having great conversation does the game really need to be on?

3. Someone asked me if I saw what was going on in the NBA Playoffs the other day. I responded with, "the NBA is still going on?"

4. But we did talk some NHL playoffs which has to be the best Playoff setup in sports. There are 2 tournaments that are better. 1 is the NCAA tournament (the first weekend at least) and the 2nd is the World Cup. The NHL Playoffs are great and there is so much action that you can't possibly follow it all.

I have watched at least 1 game a day since the start last Wednesday. My Capitals started slowly but are picking up their play lately and can tie up the series with a win tonight. And the Flyers are down 3 games to 1 which is almost like waking up on Christmas morning and seeing the presents under the tree. When they lose on Thursday and head home to Canada eh, it will be like opening the presents!


Is there anything else happening in sports??? I didn't think so.