I think that it took most of the sports world by storm when Cliff Lee agreed to a contract with the Philadelphia Phillies over the New York Yankees and Texas Rangers. New York and Texas were widely thought to be the only two major players in the battle for Lee before last night. As a supporter of the "Anyone But The Yankees" cause, this is good news, in a sense. However, Philadelphia now has the best starting pitching core in the majors since Atlanta's trio of Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz over a decade ago. Quite honestly, it may be one of the best pitching rotations in the past few decades. Obviously, that claim is up for debate, but let's take a look at the potential starting rotation for the Phillies next year. Of the five starters (Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Roy Oswalt, Cole Hamels, and Joe Blanton), two (Halladay and Lee) are Cy Young winners. A third (Oswalt) has been a Cy Young finalist multiple times. Hamels was the 2008 World Series MVP, and not too long ago was the club's ace. Blanton, while having the least credentials in the group, still posted a 9-6 overall record last season.
The only way I can see Philadelphia not winning the National League is if they have the offensive firepower of a local coach pitch team. Yes, the Phils were sub-par offensively last season, and the departure of Jason Werth does not help matters. However, we saw what happened with San Francisco this past fall; it was almost impossible to earn runs on their spectacular starting rotation. San Francisco's offense only had to squeeze out a few runs a game, and the superior pitching more often than not preserved the small leads. The young core that San Francisco had doesn't even compare to what Philadelphia has now. Four elite pitchers, all in their prime. Unless injuries become an issue, someone better send a memo to all the National League General Managers: You better watch out for the "Philly Phour".
Does anyone else feel even a little bit bad for Brett Favre? Sure, for three years the Favre Chronicles has been a soap-opera worthy of a mid-afternoon TV slot, but it was really kind of sad to see Favre's Iron Man streak come to an end under the circumstances that it did. Not only was the game played in Detroit, where the number of Minnesota fans is about the same as that of residents of the city that still have a job, but to add insult to injury (no pun intended), Favre got to watch his team get crushed. You know it has to be painful to sit on the sidelines (again, no pun intended) as you watch your replacement trip his own running back on a simple handoff. No matter what you think of Favre's antics, you have to admire his desire to play the game. On Yahoo! Sports, Favre is listed as questionable for this weekend's game against Chicago, with chest, ankle, and right shoulder injuries. The man is practically falling apart, yet still will not admit defeat. However, due to many people's perception of him, his greatest assets may always be at least partly overshadowed by his recent behavior. It's unfortunate that Favre's career looks as if it will end more like the final scene of The Hulk, rather than a hero of the game riding off into the sunset as it should.
You heard it here first; in three years, the Miami Hurricanes will make the rivalry with the Florida Gators relevant again. I believe that the Hurricanes made a great move by making Al Golden their new head coach, and I think that Florida fans may be missing Urban Meyer sooner than they think, as the university signed current Texas defensive coordinator Will Muschamp to be their head coach starting next season. Golden completely turned around a Temple team that hadn't been to a bowl game since 1979 before going to the Eagle Bank Bowl last year. Like Muschamp, Golden is a former defensive coordinator, but has experience running the entire show, and was one of the most sought after young coaches in the game dating back to last year. I think that Golden is much like Meyer, in that he shows the ability to improve a team wherever he goes. Muschamp, while being an extremely talented defensive coordinator, announced that he will institute a pro-style offense at Florida. It is very difficult to successfully run a pro-style offense, and as a defensive coordinator with no prior head coaching experience, will likely be even more difficult for Muschamp. Also, Florida fans can complain about the spread, but one of the reasons Meyer implemented that style of offense is because, as of late, Florida has not been able to recruit the players to run the pro-style. I think we will find that Golden is a true head coach, while Muschamp is just a very talented defensive coordinator. While neither team may be an elite college football power for awhile, I think that Miami will rise and Florida will continue to fall, making this a much more balanced rivalry as long as both of these men are at the helm.
- K. Becks
Showing posts with label nfl. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nfl. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Jenn Sterger Is A Piece...Of Work
I'm getting really tired of hearing what Jenn Sterger is doing to hold both the NFL and Brett Favre by their you-know-whats. It was announced yesterday that Sterger planned not to file a lawsuit against Brett Favre, but only on the grounds that the NFL itself would punish Favre. Apparently, according to Sterger's manager Phil Reese, her goal is some acknowledgment that Favre was in the wrong. Get over yourself, Jenn. Number one, everyone knows that the NFL isn't going to carry out any real punishment against Favre. Number two, it is quite obvious that this is just a ploy to keep you in the spotlight. If it was actually sexual harassment (in other words, something that should actually be looked into), your friend Allison Torres wouldn't have spilled that you "just laughed when he did it". If you wanted to stay in the spotlight, maybe you shouldn't have gotten rid of those assets that got you there in the first place. It doesn't really matter though, because you aren't even that hot. Seriously, you were on Versus. On top of that, your show got cancelled after seven months. A friendly tip to anyone looking for the next Erin Andrews, it isn't Sterger. I'd stay in-house and check out Jenn Brown. At least she made it onto SportsCenter without fooling around with Favre first. Plus, she's a former Gator, too.
In some non Cameron Newton related college football news, it seems that Hawaii has also seen the writing on the wall. The school has announced that the football team will leave the WAC for the Mountain West starting in 2012, and all other Hawaii teams will leave the WAC for the West Coast Conference. Now, Hawaii isn't exactly a juggernaut football program, but they have put themselves into a position to not be left out when the conferences decide to institute a playoff. I see the Mountain West combining with whatever members of the Big 12 are left when that conference breaks apart, and becoming one of the six major conferences that will send at least one team to the playoff every year. In other words, this is a very smart move for Hawaii.
I really want to know who started the rumors about Nebraska coach Bo Pelini being interested in the Miami head coaching job. Next year, Pelini's team is moving to the Big Ten, where he will be able to use his ties to the Midwest (he is from Youngstown, Ohio) as a way to attract recruits away from his new conference opponents. He has a redshirt freshman quarterback in Taylor Martinez who is extremely versatile and will rival Denard Robinson next year as the most athletic quarterback in the Big Ten. On top of all this, Miami is in disarray, and plays in the ACC, which doesn't even compare to the Big Ten. It would be one thing if Pelini were a Miami alumnus, or if he was connected to Miami in any way at all. In all honesty though, there is about as good a chance that Miami will give Larry Coker another shot as there is that Bo Pelini will leave what he has in Lincoln to go rebuild the Hurricanes.
Last Friday, I lied and told you that I would post my second version of what I think college football's landscape will look like after the conference expansion that is starting to take place. I can't say when I'm actually going to post it, but I will tell you that it will be up before the first bowl game (which is on December 18th).
- K. Becks
In some non Cameron Newton related college football news, it seems that Hawaii has also seen the writing on the wall. The school has announced that the football team will leave the WAC for the Mountain West starting in 2012, and all other Hawaii teams will leave the WAC for the West Coast Conference. Now, Hawaii isn't exactly a juggernaut football program, but they have put themselves into a position to not be left out when the conferences decide to institute a playoff. I see the Mountain West combining with whatever members of the Big 12 are left when that conference breaks apart, and becoming one of the six major conferences that will send at least one team to the playoff every year. In other words, this is a very smart move for Hawaii.
I really want to know who started the rumors about Nebraska coach Bo Pelini being interested in the Miami head coaching job. Next year, Pelini's team is moving to the Big Ten, where he will be able to use his ties to the Midwest (he is from Youngstown, Ohio) as a way to attract recruits away from his new conference opponents. He has a redshirt freshman quarterback in Taylor Martinez who is extremely versatile and will rival Denard Robinson next year as the most athletic quarterback in the Big Ten. On top of all this, Miami is in disarray, and plays in the ACC, which doesn't even compare to the Big Ten. It would be one thing if Pelini were a Miami alumnus, or if he was connected to Miami in any way at all. In all honesty though, there is about as good a chance that Miami will give Larry Coker another shot as there is that Bo Pelini will leave what he has in Lincoln to go rebuild the Hurricanes.
Last Friday, I lied and told you that I would post my second version of what I think college football's landscape will look like after the conference expansion that is starting to take place. I can't say when I'm actually going to post it, but I will tell you that it will be up before the first bowl game (which is on December 18th).
- K. Becks
Monday, September 20, 2010
Hold On There, Partner
We were all about ready to say that the Big Ten might be as good as the SEC this year. Unfortunately for Jim Delany, everyone is holding their tongues to avoid a premature anointment of greatness. The top of the Big Ten, save Ohio State (who rolled to a 43-7 victory over in-state rival Ohio), did not look very good at all this past weekend. Although the Buckeyes won, they still showed a weakness that has proven to be, at least at this point in the season, their only vulnerability; special teams. Iowa got into the mess that they did in the first half thanks to a blocked punt (which resulted in a touchdown) and a kickoff return for a touchdown. Wisconsin didn't look solid on special teams either, other than their block of Arizona State's extra point attempt in the fourth quarter, which ultimately proved to be the difference in a 20-19 Badgers win. What does all this say so far about the Big Ten? Well, since one of their best went down this past weekend, another survived a scare at home, and a third didn't have much trouble against a walkover (but still didn't look great on special teams), they need to fix the special teams dilemma. The weakness was highlighted in Ohio State's game against Miami two weekends ago. If the Big Ten wants to have a realistic shot of dethroning the SEC, they need to be able to contain these speedy return men, of which are plenty in the SEC. Special teams can win or lose games, and if the Big Ten wants to be on the winning side, they need to tighten up the special teams.
Part of being an NFL fan is that you must proclaim your team the greatest with each win, and cover your head to avoid a piece of the sky falling with each loss. This is especially true considering a team which, on paper, has all the tools to hold up the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the season. Yes, I am talking about the Dallas Cowboys. It is hard to pinpoint what the real problem is for the Cowboys. They have been in close games with teams who may be surprisingly difficult to beat this year (sure, Chicago was a controversial call away from losing in Detroit. They are 2-0, though. Washington followed up their win against Dallas with a valiant effort against the 2-0 Texans). Tony Romo hasn't played terribly, either. I think that Dallas themselves are a little confused, which is why it has been rather quiet from the Cowboys camp. No one is pointing fingers. Yet. However, the Cowboys get to face the Houston Texans this weekend for their first road test. A third loss to start the season and fingers will be flying in every direction. The only mystery will be at whom.
I really hope that the Colorado Rockies make the playoffs. It seems that each year, the Rockies catch fire at precisely the right time in order to make a run for the playoffs, and add excitement to what can often be a rather bland National League picture. Now that Troy Tulowitzki is back, he has energized this Colorado team once again, and is playing like the best player in baseball. If the Rockies do manage to make the playoffs, I don't see why they can't make it all the way to the World Series, much like they did back in 2007. Statistically, the Rockies' pitching performance as a whole is not any better than the Phillies' pitching. However, thanks to the play of guys like Tulowitzski and Colorado's consistent raising of the bar deep into the season, I think it would be an extremely exciting series. If the Rockies don't make in the NLCS, then I think the league is the Phillies for the taking once again (that is, of course, assuming that they make the playoffs as well). I don't see enough from San Diego or San Francisco to suggest otherwise, and I think that Cincinnati's inexperience in the playoffs will ultimately be their demise.
Questions or comments about anything I've written or about anything in sports you'd like to discuss? Send me an email at aroundthecornsportsblog@gmail.com or post a comment in the comments section, and I'll get back to you as quickly as possible. Have a Facebook page? Then please check out the Around The Corn Sports Blog fan page, and become a fan if you enjoy the site. Also, remember that you can now type in www.aroundthecorn.com into your browser and be redirected to the blog. Thanks everyone!
- K. Becks
Part of being an NFL fan is that you must proclaim your team the greatest with each win, and cover your head to avoid a piece of the sky falling with each loss. This is especially true considering a team which, on paper, has all the tools to hold up the Lombardi Trophy at the end of the season. Yes, I am talking about the Dallas Cowboys. It is hard to pinpoint what the real problem is for the Cowboys. They have been in close games with teams who may be surprisingly difficult to beat this year (sure, Chicago was a controversial call away from losing in Detroit. They are 2-0, though. Washington followed up their win against Dallas with a valiant effort against the 2-0 Texans). Tony Romo hasn't played terribly, either. I think that Dallas themselves are a little confused, which is why it has been rather quiet from the Cowboys camp. No one is pointing fingers. Yet. However, the Cowboys get to face the Houston Texans this weekend for their first road test. A third loss to start the season and fingers will be flying in every direction. The only mystery will be at whom.
I really hope that the Colorado Rockies make the playoffs. It seems that each year, the Rockies catch fire at precisely the right time in order to make a run for the playoffs, and add excitement to what can often be a rather bland National League picture. Now that Troy Tulowitzki is back, he has energized this Colorado team once again, and is playing like the best player in baseball. If the Rockies do manage to make the playoffs, I don't see why they can't make it all the way to the World Series, much like they did back in 2007. Statistically, the Rockies' pitching performance as a whole is not any better than the Phillies' pitching. However, thanks to the play of guys like Tulowitzski and Colorado's consistent raising of the bar deep into the season, I think it would be an extremely exciting series. If the Rockies don't make in the NLCS, then I think the league is the Phillies for the taking once again (that is, of course, assuming that they make the playoffs as well). I don't see enough from San Diego or San Francisco to suggest otherwise, and I think that Cincinnati's inexperience in the playoffs will ultimately be their demise.
Questions or comments about anything I've written or about anything in sports you'd like to discuss? Send me an email at aroundthecornsportsblog@gmail.com or post a comment in the comments section, and I'll get back to you as quickly as possible. Have a Facebook page? Then please check out the Around The Corn Sports Blog fan page, and become a fan if you enjoy the site. Also, remember that you can now type in www.aroundthecorn.com into your browser and be redirected to the blog. Thanks everyone!
- K. Becks
Thursday, September 9, 2010
NFL: AFC Preview
This is a very short post. Like I said yesterday, I don't have that much to talk about as far as the NFL is concerned. I like to let the season get underway before I begin to rant.
AFC Preview
AFC East
1. New York Jets (12-4)
2. Miami Dolphins (10-6)
3. New England Patriots (10-6)
4. Buffalo Bills (4-12)
Why They'll Win: They aren't as good as they think they are, and this isn't a division where they will just run away with the lead. However, the Jets did a nice job in the offseason, and having Darrelle Revis back in time for the regular season will help the already solid defense. With all their new components, plus a fiery coach, the Jets are just better than Miami and New England. It's the passing of the torch from New England to New York, because the Jets may have a hold on this division for years to come.
AFC North
1. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6)
2. Baltimore Ravens (10-6)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-9)
4. Cleveland Browns (3-13)
Why They'll Win: Most people aren't ready to put the Bengals at number one in this division. The Ochocinco and T.O. combination could be a powder keg, and Baltimore is the class of the AFC in some people's eyes. I think that Cincinnati is capable not only of keeping their two receivers happy, but of beating Baltimore twice this season. Carson Palmer is still better than Joe Flacco, and I think that will ultimately be the difference when these teams meet each other this season.
AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts (13-3)
2. Houston Texans (9-7)
3. Tennessee Titans (8-8)
4. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
Why They'll Win: I routinely feel bad for the Houston Texans, because for as good as they are, they always have to deal with the Indianapolis Colts. Pay no attention to the Colts 0-4 preseason record, because they will still be pretty darn good. Unless Houston has their best season in franchise history, or Vince Young and Tennessee surprise again, the Colts will win this division yet again, and by a sizable margin considering the talent in this division.
AFC West
1. Denver Broncos (10-6)
2. Oakland Raiders (9-7)
3. San Diego Chargers (7-9)
4. Kansas City Chiefs (3-13)
Why They'll Win: I think that this is one of the weakest divisions, but also one of the toughest to predict, in the entire NFL. Denver is either going to be pretty good, or pretty bad. Oakland is the chic pick for many people, but I'm not ready to hop on Oakland's bandwagon yet, because I'm skeptical that quarterback Jason Campbell can really lead them to a division title. San Diego's balloon was almost entirely deflated this past offseason, and I only expect problems out West from them. Kansas City just isn't there. Since someone has to stumble into the number one spot in the AFC West, I think the Broncos are most likely to do so. Josh McDaniels will not be on the hot seat; at least, not this year.
Playoffs
Wild Card
Baltimore (Wild Card) vs. Denver Broncos
Winner: Baltimore
Miami (Wild Card) vs. Cincinnati
Winner: Miami
Divisional
Baltimore vs. Indianapolis
Winner: Indianapolis
Miami vs. New York
Winner: New York
Conference Championship
New York vs. Indianapolis
Winner: Indianapolis
Okay, now that you've seen my predictions, you know that my conference champions are the Green Bay Packers and the Indianapolis Colts. I'm sure that you all have differing opinions, so I'd like to hear them. Before you sound off in the comments section or on the Around The Corn Sports Blog Facebook fan page, here is my prediction for Super Bowl XLV.
Super Bowl XLV
Green Bay Packers (NFC Champions) vs. Indianapolis Colts (AFC Champions)
Winner: Green Bay Packers
- K. Becks
AFC Preview
AFC East
1. New York Jets (12-4)
2. Miami Dolphins (10-6)
3. New England Patriots (10-6)
4. Buffalo Bills (4-12)
Why They'll Win: They aren't as good as they think they are, and this isn't a division where they will just run away with the lead. However, the Jets did a nice job in the offseason, and having Darrelle Revis back in time for the regular season will help the already solid defense. With all their new components, plus a fiery coach, the Jets are just better than Miami and New England. It's the passing of the torch from New England to New York, because the Jets may have a hold on this division for years to come.
AFC North
1. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6)
2. Baltimore Ravens (10-6)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-9)
4. Cleveland Browns (3-13)
Why They'll Win: Most people aren't ready to put the Bengals at number one in this division. The Ochocinco and T.O. combination could be a powder keg, and Baltimore is the class of the AFC in some people's eyes. I think that Cincinnati is capable not only of keeping their two receivers happy, but of beating Baltimore twice this season. Carson Palmer is still better than Joe Flacco, and I think that will ultimately be the difference when these teams meet each other this season.
AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts (13-3)
2. Houston Texans (9-7)
3. Tennessee Titans (8-8)
4. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
Why They'll Win: I routinely feel bad for the Houston Texans, because for as good as they are, they always have to deal with the Indianapolis Colts. Pay no attention to the Colts 0-4 preseason record, because they will still be pretty darn good. Unless Houston has their best season in franchise history, or Vince Young and Tennessee surprise again, the Colts will win this division yet again, and by a sizable margin considering the talent in this division.
AFC West
1. Denver Broncos (10-6)
2. Oakland Raiders (9-7)
3. San Diego Chargers (7-9)
4. Kansas City Chiefs (3-13)
Why They'll Win: I think that this is one of the weakest divisions, but also one of the toughest to predict, in the entire NFL. Denver is either going to be pretty good, or pretty bad. Oakland is the chic pick for many people, but I'm not ready to hop on Oakland's bandwagon yet, because I'm skeptical that quarterback Jason Campbell can really lead them to a division title. San Diego's balloon was almost entirely deflated this past offseason, and I only expect problems out West from them. Kansas City just isn't there. Since someone has to stumble into the number one spot in the AFC West, I think the Broncos are most likely to do so. Josh McDaniels will not be on the hot seat; at least, not this year.
Playoffs
Wild Card
Baltimore (Wild Card) vs. Denver Broncos
Winner: Baltimore
Miami (Wild Card) vs. Cincinnati
Winner: Miami
Divisional
Baltimore vs. Indianapolis
Winner: Indianapolis
Miami vs. New York
Winner: New York
Conference Championship
New York vs. Indianapolis
Winner: Indianapolis
Okay, now that you've seen my predictions, you know that my conference champions are the Green Bay Packers and the Indianapolis Colts. I'm sure that you all have differing opinions, so I'd like to hear them. Before you sound off in the comments section or on the Around The Corn Sports Blog Facebook fan page, here is my prediction for Super Bowl XLV.
Super Bowl XLV
Green Bay Packers (NFC Champions) vs. Indianapolis Colts (AFC Champions)
Winner: Green Bay Packers
- K. Becks
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
NFL: NFC Preview (And More)
It's been over a week since my last post, which is okay, since I've decided that I only have enough to talk about concerning the NFL to stretch out into two posts. Considering that the NFL season starts tomorrow, I have just enough time to give my preseason predictions before the season kicks off. However, remember that thing that took place a couple of nights ago? The really big game that people had been talking about for months? Yea; I think I should address that first.
For all of you doubters, I told you so. You tried to pretend like Boise State was still this little podunk school with no athletes capable of matching up with the big boys. If that were true, then why exactly does no one want to schedule them? San Jose State, Marshall, Rice, Miami (OH), and Utah State all fit the bill, and the big boys do schedule them. Do you really want to know why? Because it's false. Boise State isn't a little podunk school with no athletes anymore. They can go into the hostile crowds, on the road, and play heads up with these power conference teams. The others can't. But Boise can, and that's why they're the biggest fish in the smallest pond. They can't help it right now that they're in that small pond, but they can prove that when they're thrown into the Mississippi, they can swim just as fast as the big fish. Sure, Virginia Tech may not be a truly elite team this year, but they aren't bad, and they're the only team that was willing to stand up and take a punch from the Broncos. The Broncos K.O.'d 'em, and now everyone else is looking around, trying to figure out what happened, and trying to figure out who's going to stand up next. Boise deserves and is ready for another fight, but the sad truth is, there probably isn't anyone with enough down low to stand up and challenge them.
For all of you believers, this proved nothing, and I mean that in two ways. Firstly, we all knew that Boise State was capable of winning this game. It's no surprise to us that they won, and it won't be any surprise to us if they beat Oregon State in two weeks. However, we also know that this didn't prove anything to the doubters, either. We can say "we told you so", but they'll just come back with their slew of rationalizations. Virginia Tech wasn't really a Top 10 team. They didn't win convincingly enough. They still only play one tough opponent all season. As hypocritical as those rationalizations are, they are the words of the majority, and in college football, the majority wins. That's also why Boise's win was a win for the majority. It sounds contradictory, but here's why it is. Boise is still an outside shot to play for the national title, even with an undefeated season. Many of the same people arguing against Boise now will be the ones arguing on Boise's behalf if they get overlooked for a national title bid in favor of a one loss power conference team. Further conference re-alignment is coming. A college football playoff is inevitable. The majority wants it, and Boise State is helping speed up the process.
Also, on another note, the SEC was impressive this past weekend. Florida looked sharp. Ole Miss looked really good. Kentucky just rolled right over always tough Louisville. LSU had no trouble holding off North Carolina's second defense. Oh, wait. What? That isn't what happened at all? Well, I guess after the week the SEC had, they really proved to the country that Boise State would finish fourth or fifth in their conference. Give me a break.
For the NFL previews, I'm basically just going to predict each team's record and tell you why I think a team will win their division, as well as give you my predictions for the playoffs. I couldn't really think of much else to cover, so if there is something you'd like to hear my opinion on, let me know, and I'll include a section for it in one of my upcoming posts.
NFC Preview
NFC East
1. Dallas Cowboys (10-6)
2. New York Giants (9-7)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (6-10)
4. Washington Redskins (4-12)
Why They'll Win: I think that Dallas is a little bit over-hyped coming into this season, but when I look at every other team in the NFC East, I don't feel comfortable putting them in the top spot. New York is hit or miss, Philadelphia has to prove they have a quarterback, and Washington has a slew of issues. With all that being said, Dallas is the only team I feel confident putting at number one in this division.
NFC North
1. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
2. Minnesota Vikings (11-5)
3. Chicago Bears (5-11)
4. Detroit Lions (3-13)
Why They'll Win: Aaron Rodgers is finally ready to become an elite quarterback in the league, and he has a team around him that is ready to accept elite status as well. Minnesota will be hard pressed to have as good a season as they did last year without another career year from Brett Favre, and Chicago and Detroit (who is getting better and could surprise) just aren't there. Green Bay will be back in the playoffs with home field advantage throughout.
NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints (13-3)
2. Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
3. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-14)
Why They'll Win: I don't see anything, other than that post-Super Bowl slump myth, that suggests that New Orleans can't win this division again. Atlanta would have to beat New Orleans on the road and hope for some other things to go their way to steal the division, and I just don't see the former happening. After New Orleans and Atlanta, the division drops off quite a bit.
NFC West
1. San Francisco 49ers (10-6)
2. Arizona Cardinals (7-9)
3. Seattle Seahawks (4-12)
4. St. Louis Rams (1-15)
Why They'll Win: Considering the Cardinals quarterback situation, the 49ers are now my confident pick to win this division. Other than Arizona, there isn't much here, and as long as San Francisco doesn't stub their toe against a lesser division rival or other opponent, they should be able to win this division with some breathing room. They're not the most talented team in the NFC, but they have enough to win here.
Playoffs
Wild Card
Atlanta (Wild Card) vs. San Francisco
Winner: Atlanta
Minnesota (Wild Card) vs. Dallas
Winner: Minnesota
Divisional
Atlanta vs. Green Bay
Winner: Green Bay
Minnesota vs. New Orleans
Winner: New Orleans
Conference Championship
New Orleans vs. Green Bay
Winner: Green Bay
Remember to vote on all the new polls I just added. There are fifteen or so active polls, so if you haven't voted on any of them (or haven't visited the site in awhile and can't remember which ones you've voted on and which ones you haven't), just vote on them all. It makes it look like more people read the blog. Thanks everyone.
- K. Becks
For all of you doubters, I told you so. You tried to pretend like Boise State was still this little podunk school with no athletes capable of matching up with the big boys. If that were true, then why exactly does no one want to schedule them? San Jose State, Marshall, Rice, Miami (OH), and Utah State all fit the bill, and the big boys do schedule them. Do you really want to know why? Because it's false. Boise State isn't a little podunk school with no athletes anymore. They can go into the hostile crowds, on the road, and play heads up with these power conference teams. The others can't. But Boise can, and that's why they're the biggest fish in the smallest pond. They can't help it right now that they're in that small pond, but they can prove that when they're thrown into the Mississippi, they can swim just as fast as the big fish. Sure, Virginia Tech may not be a truly elite team this year, but they aren't bad, and they're the only team that was willing to stand up and take a punch from the Broncos. The Broncos K.O.'d 'em, and now everyone else is looking around, trying to figure out what happened, and trying to figure out who's going to stand up next. Boise deserves and is ready for another fight, but the sad truth is, there probably isn't anyone with enough down low to stand up and challenge them.
For all of you believers, this proved nothing, and I mean that in two ways. Firstly, we all knew that Boise State was capable of winning this game. It's no surprise to us that they won, and it won't be any surprise to us if they beat Oregon State in two weeks. However, we also know that this didn't prove anything to the doubters, either. We can say "we told you so", but they'll just come back with their slew of rationalizations. Virginia Tech wasn't really a Top 10 team. They didn't win convincingly enough. They still only play one tough opponent all season. As hypocritical as those rationalizations are, they are the words of the majority, and in college football, the majority wins. That's also why Boise's win was a win for the majority. It sounds contradictory, but here's why it is. Boise is still an outside shot to play for the national title, even with an undefeated season. Many of the same people arguing against Boise now will be the ones arguing on Boise's behalf if they get overlooked for a national title bid in favor of a one loss power conference team. Further conference re-alignment is coming. A college football playoff is inevitable. The majority wants it, and Boise State is helping speed up the process.
Also, on another note, the SEC was impressive this past weekend. Florida looked sharp. Ole Miss looked really good. Kentucky just rolled right over always tough Louisville. LSU had no trouble holding off North Carolina's second defense. Oh, wait. What? That isn't what happened at all? Well, I guess after the week the SEC had, they really proved to the country that Boise State would finish fourth or fifth in their conference. Give me a break.
For the NFL previews, I'm basically just going to predict each team's record and tell you why I think a team will win their division, as well as give you my predictions for the playoffs. I couldn't really think of much else to cover, so if there is something you'd like to hear my opinion on, let me know, and I'll include a section for it in one of my upcoming posts.
NFC Preview
NFC East
1. Dallas Cowboys (10-6)
2. New York Giants (9-7)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (6-10)
4. Washington Redskins (4-12)
Why They'll Win: I think that Dallas is a little bit over-hyped coming into this season, but when I look at every other team in the NFC East, I don't feel comfortable putting them in the top spot. New York is hit or miss, Philadelphia has to prove they have a quarterback, and Washington has a slew of issues. With all that being said, Dallas is the only team I feel confident putting at number one in this division.
NFC North
1. Green Bay Packers (13-3)
2. Minnesota Vikings (11-5)
3. Chicago Bears (5-11)
4. Detroit Lions (3-13)
Why They'll Win: Aaron Rodgers is finally ready to become an elite quarterback in the league, and he has a team around him that is ready to accept elite status as well. Minnesota will be hard pressed to have as good a season as they did last year without another career year from Brett Favre, and Chicago and Detroit (who is getting better and could surprise) just aren't there. Green Bay will be back in the playoffs with home field advantage throughout.
NFC South
1. New Orleans Saints (13-3)
2. Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
3. Carolina Panthers (7-9)
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-14)
Why They'll Win: I don't see anything, other than that post-Super Bowl slump myth, that suggests that New Orleans can't win this division again. Atlanta would have to beat New Orleans on the road and hope for some other things to go their way to steal the division, and I just don't see the former happening. After New Orleans and Atlanta, the division drops off quite a bit.
NFC West
1. San Francisco 49ers (10-6)
2. Arizona Cardinals (7-9)
3. Seattle Seahawks (4-12)
4. St. Louis Rams (1-15)
Why They'll Win: Considering the Cardinals quarterback situation, the 49ers are now my confident pick to win this division. Other than Arizona, there isn't much here, and as long as San Francisco doesn't stub their toe against a lesser division rival or other opponent, they should be able to win this division with some breathing room. They're not the most talented team in the NFC, but they have enough to win here.
Playoffs
Wild Card
Atlanta (Wild Card) vs. San Francisco
Winner: Atlanta
Minnesota (Wild Card) vs. Dallas
Winner: Minnesota
Divisional
Atlanta vs. Green Bay
Winner: Green Bay
Minnesota vs. New Orleans
Winner: New Orleans
Conference Championship
New Orleans vs. Green Bay
Winner: Green Bay
Remember to vote on all the new polls I just added. There are fifteen or so active polls, so if you haven't voted on any of them (or haven't visited the site in awhile and can't remember which ones you've voted on and which ones you haven't), just vote on them all. It makes it look like more people read the blog. Thanks everyone.
- K. Becks
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Peyton, Or Payton?
After last weekend's much needed break from the norm, I'm back to predict another football game. Honestly, I have no idea why they would be playing such an important game in a place like Miami. Why not have it in the nation's capital or something? I hear they're having pretty good weather up there....
My last prediction of a football game for quite awhile, here it is; my pick for Super Bowl XLIV.
Indianapolis vs. New Orleans
I don't think America could have asked for a better game. Sure, many people would've liked to see Brett Favre go out a champion (well, maybe just get to the Big Game), or see Rex Ryan and the upstart Jets play for it all. However, the matchup that we got is obviously the best from a strictly football perspective; these are the two best teams in the league.
As I said, I see this game being extremely close. Both teams have the ability to put up points at will, and that is why I see this being a high scoring game. Obviously, one of the keys to the game will be the play of the quarterbacks. However, I believe the play of each team's defense will be the deciding factor. New Orleans will need to get after Peyton Manning the entire game, in hopes of rattling possibly the most composed quarterback in the game. If they are unable to do this, you'll be paying more attention to the commercials than the game by halftime. As for the Colts defense, the play of Dwight Freeney will be sorely missed, as he will probably not be a factor in the game due to his ankle injury. The question for them is, "Will they be able to put pressure on Drew Brees?" It's a must if they want to win, because as Brees showed us two weeks ago, if he is allowed time to throw, he will hit his target.
For the first time, the city of New Orleans' pride is on the line in the Super Bowl. I believe that with the leadership of Drew Brees, and the support of a battle tested city with them, the Saints will beat a very good Colts team. After many tries, this year's team will put all of the franchise's woes to rest, and those on Bourbon Street tomorrow night will experience a party no Mardi Gras celebration could ever produce.
Final Score: 38-34 New Orleans
- K. Becks
My last prediction of a football game for quite awhile, here it is; my pick for Super Bowl XLIV.
Indianapolis vs. New Orleans
I don't think America could have asked for a better game. Sure, many people would've liked to see Brett Favre go out a champion (well, maybe just get to the Big Game), or see Rex Ryan and the upstart Jets play for it all. However, the matchup that we got is obviously the best from a strictly football perspective; these are the two best teams in the league.
As I said, I see this game being extremely close. Both teams have the ability to put up points at will, and that is why I see this being a high scoring game. Obviously, one of the keys to the game will be the play of the quarterbacks. However, I believe the play of each team's defense will be the deciding factor. New Orleans will need to get after Peyton Manning the entire game, in hopes of rattling possibly the most composed quarterback in the game. If they are unable to do this, you'll be paying more attention to the commercials than the game by halftime. As for the Colts defense, the play of Dwight Freeney will be sorely missed, as he will probably not be a factor in the game due to his ankle injury. The question for them is, "Will they be able to put pressure on Drew Brees?" It's a must if they want to win, because as Brees showed us two weeks ago, if he is allowed time to throw, he will hit his target.
For the first time, the city of New Orleans' pride is on the line in the Super Bowl. I believe that with the leadership of Drew Brees, and the support of a battle tested city with them, the Saints will beat a very good Colts team. After many tries, this year's team will put all of the franchise's woes to rest, and those on Bourbon Street tomorrow night will experience a party no Mardi Gras celebration could ever produce.
Final Score: 38-34 New Orleans
- K. Becks
Saturday, January 30, 2010
A Little Break From The Usual
I think this is the first weekend where I will not be making any predictions for football games. That is okay with me, because I didn't create this blog with the intent of just posting my predictions. Also, since I don't have any games to cover, I don't have a set deadline for when my content needs to be submitted, so I have more freedom to choose when I decide to post a new entry. I am very pleased about that, because lately I'm finding it very hard to stay awake during the day.
Something else I'm happy about is that Winter X Games 14 is happening this weekend. I've always been a fan of the X Games, not only because it's acceptable for the athletes to use words like "rad" and "killer" during their interviews and not receive any flack from stuffy commissioners, but because these men and women are in it completely for the love of the sports. There are no looming clouds of doubt about "who's doping". Many of the participants are not racking in the big money like other professional sports stars, either. Also, when was the last time that you saw a sports star go all out (see Torah Bright) in what is widely considered as a prelude to the big event (the Winter Olympics)? You don't have to be a fan of winter extreme sports to admire and appreciate the effort that these athletes are putting forth this weekend in Aspen.
On the contrary, something that I'm not happy about is the announcement that Kurt Warner has retired from the NFL. The classic rags-to-riches story (from supermarket employee to Super Bowl MVP), Warner is an example that persistence does in fact pay off. In addition to being one of the most accurate quarterbacks ever to play the game (he is second in career completion percentage), he is also one of the most efficient quarterbacks (third in career passing efficiency). If not most importantly, he has always been considered a class act around the league (which is rare to come by these days, especially among aging QBs). I definitely think he is a Hall of Famer, if not a first ballot Hall of Famer. The league is losing one of the great ones of our generation with the retirement of Mr. Warner.
Like what I'm doing? Want me to write about a certain topic in sports? Send me an email at aroundthecornsportsblog@gmail.com and tell me what you think. I'd love to hear your comments, and I'll try my best to get back to you guys. Thanks everyone.
- K. Becks
Something else I'm happy about is that Winter X Games 14 is happening this weekend. I've always been a fan of the X Games, not only because it's acceptable for the athletes to use words like "rad" and "killer" during their interviews and not receive any flack from stuffy commissioners, but because these men and women are in it completely for the love of the sports. There are no looming clouds of doubt about "who's doping". Many of the participants are not racking in the big money like other professional sports stars, either. Also, when was the last time that you saw a sports star go all out (see Torah Bright) in what is widely considered as a prelude to the big event (the Winter Olympics)? You don't have to be a fan of winter extreme sports to admire and appreciate the effort that these athletes are putting forth this weekend in Aspen.
On the contrary, something that I'm not happy about is the announcement that Kurt Warner has retired from the NFL. The classic rags-to-riches story (from supermarket employee to Super Bowl MVP), Warner is an example that persistence does in fact pay off. In addition to being one of the most accurate quarterbacks ever to play the game (he is second in career completion percentage), he is also one of the most efficient quarterbacks (third in career passing efficiency). If not most importantly, he has always been considered a class act around the league (which is rare to come by these days, especially among aging QBs). I definitely think he is a Hall of Famer, if not a first ballot Hall of Famer. The league is losing one of the great ones of our generation with the retirement of Mr. Warner.
Like what I'm doing? Want me to write about a certain topic in sports? Send me an email at aroundthecornsportsblog@gmail.com and tell me what you think. I'd love to hear your comments, and I'll try my best to get back to you guys. Thanks everyone.
- K. Becks
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Back In My Day...
Well, I was going to write about Ohio State upsetting Purdue on Tuesday night, but I think that the game did the talking for itself. Bottom line: when Evan Turner is healthy, he is the best player in the Big 10. Robbie Hummel also deserves a lot of credit for his outstanding first half performance.
Last week, I went 1-3 in picking the NFL playoff games. I think that this week I can better that mark, if only by one game. Here are my picks for the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs.
AFC Divisional Round
Baltimore vs. Indianapolis
Baltimore was the shocker of last week; however, I really don't know how good the Patriots actually were. Indianapolis, on the other hand, is the real deal. I've been a supporter of their decision to give up the perfect season in hopes of maximizing their playoff productivity. I don't think that Indy will have any problem beating the Ravens at home. Since the game is in a dome, it should be a high scoring game, and that will favor the Colts. Look for Peyton Manning to have a good day.
Final Score: 35-21 Indianapolis
New York vs. San Diego
With all due respect to the Cowboys, I believe that San Diego was the hottest team going into the playoffs. Rex Ryan and the Jets aren't going to do anything to slow down the 'Bolts either. I believe both quarterbacks have a chance to take their team to the Super Bowl; but in Mark Sanchez's case, I mean future Super Bowls. Sanchez has shown some good stuff, but is too young to lead his team to a victory against a team like the Chargers. Remember, New York's win last week was against the Bengals, who had a rollercoaster of a season to say the least. San Diego will keep on rolling here.
Final Score: 31-17 San Diego
NFC Divisional Round
Arizona vs. New Orleans
This game has the potential to be the best one of the weekend. It's been a month since New Orleans' last win, and unless they come out firing on all cylinders, they could be in trouble. Let's remember that the turning point (that is, when everyone started saying "How about them Saints?") was after they beat New England back in November. The Patriots, as it turned out, weren't as good as everyone thought. If the Saints don't get after Kurt Warner and allow him time in the pocket, then they could be done for the season. It should be close, but I'm calling the upset here.
Final Score: 38-35 Arizona
Dallas vs. Minnesota
This is a tough game to call. Dallas is playing very well right now. But Minnesota, when Adrian Peterson doesn't turn the ball over, is very hard to stop as well. I like the experience of Brett Favre over Tony Romo. However, the Vikings need to stop guys like Cowboys TE Jason Witten if they want to win. If the linebackers forget about him, then Romo will look very good in this game. I like Minnesota in a close one.
Final Score: 35-31 Minnesota
- K. Becks
Last week, I went 1-3 in picking the NFL playoff games. I think that this week I can better that mark, if only by one game. Here are my picks for the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs.
AFC Divisional Round
Baltimore vs. Indianapolis
Baltimore was the shocker of last week; however, I really don't know how good the Patriots actually were. Indianapolis, on the other hand, is the real deal. I've been a supporter of their decision to give up the perfect season in hopes of maximizing their playoff productivity. I don't think that Indy will have any problem beating the Ravens at home. Since the game is in a dome, it should be a high scoring game, and that will favor the Colts. Look for Peyton Manning to have a good day.
Final Score: 35-21 Indianapolis
New York vs. San Diego
With all due respect to the Cowboys, I believe that San Diego was the hottest team going into the playoffs. Rex Ryan and the Jets aren't going to do anything to slow down the 'Bolts either. I believe both quarterbacks have a chance to take their team to the Super Bowl; but in Mark Sanchez's case, I mean future Super Bowls. Sanchez has shown some good stuff, but is too young to lead his team to a victory against a team like the Chargers. Remember, New York's win last week was against the Bengals, who had a rollercoaster of a season to say the least. San Diego will keep on rolling here.
Final Score: 31-17 San Diego
NFC Divisional Round
Arizona vs. New Orleans
This game has the potential to be the best one of the weekend. It's been a month since New Orleans' last win, and unless they come out firing on all cylinders, they could be in trouble. Let's remember that the turning point (that is, when everyone started saying "How about them Saints?") was after they beat New England back in November. The Patriots, as it turned out, weren't as good as everyone thought. If the Saints don't get after Kurt Warner and allow him time in the pocket, then they could be done for the season. It should be close, but I'm calling the upset here.
Final Score: 38-35 Arizona
Dallas vs. Minnesota
This is a tough game to call. Dallas is playing very well right now. But Minnesota, when Adrian Peterson doesn't turn the ball over, is very hard to stop as well. I like the experience of Brett Favre over Tony Romo. However, the Vikings need to stop guys like Cowboys TE Jason Witten if they want to win. If the linebackers forget about him, then Romo will look very good in this game. I like Minnesota in a close one.
Final Score: 35-31 Minnesota
- K. Becks
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Wild Card Weekend
I had meant to post an entry yesterday to review the National Championship game and give a look back at some of my favorite games of the bowl season. However, due to the fact that the NFL Wildcard games start today, I'm going to have to put that on hold. As for the National Championship, I'm not saying anything that people haven't already said; it was a decent game, but we're left wondering "what if?"
Since the wildcard games start today, I've decided to give my picks for the games. Each week I'll make new picks as we work our way down to two teams. This year's matchups are particularly interesting, especially since many of these teams played each other just last week.
AFC Wildcard
New York vs. Cincinnati
I don't think that Cincinnati should be extremely concerned about last week's performance (other than the fact that they couldn't catch the ball). Carson Palmer needs to have a solid game against the tough Jets passing defense for Cincinnati to win. If he can do that, and Cincinnati can make Jets QB Mark Sanchez look like a nervous rookie in his first playoff appearance, then they will play another week.
Final Score: 24-17 Cincinnati
Baltimore vs. New England
The Patriots are pretty banged up heading into this one. Without wideout Wes Welker (say that one 5 times fast), guys such as Julian Edelman are going to have to step up big time. If the Ravens want to win this one, then RB Willis McGahee is going to need to gouge the Patriot defense much like he did last week against Oakland. The Patriots are 8-0 at home this season, and are also a perfect 7-0 at Gillette Stadium in the playoffs, but I think that the Ravens have the ability to win a close one. This game could be the most interesting of the wildcard weekend.
Final Score: 20-14 Baltimore
NFC Wildcard
Philadelphia vs. Dallas
This is probably the most anticipated matchup of the weekend. We will finally get to see if Tony Romo and Wade Phillips can win in the playoffs. Philadelphia has yet to beat Dallas this season, and trying to do that in Dallas will be no easy task. Time is running out for Donovan McNabb to get his Super Bowl ring, so he is going to need to play much better than he did last week if he wants to keep his season alive. Making Tony Romo revert to his previous late season play will be key for the Philly defense, and I think that they are capable of doing that.
Final Score: 35-33 Philadelphia
Green Bay vs. Arizona
This is my favorite game this weekend. I really don't want to see either team lose, because both have major upsides that are capable of taking them to the Super Bowl. Green Bay is one of the hottest teams in football right now, and QB Aaron Rodgers has been making people in Green Bay say "Brett who?" Arizona faces a tall task in stopping Rodgers, and I just don't see them doing it well enough. This game should be closer than last week's, but the "W" will go to the same team.
Final Score: 34-24 Packers
Like my picks? Think I have no idea what I'm talking about? I'd love to hear your comments. Shoot me an email at aroundthecornsportsblog@gmail.com or post a comment under this entry, and I'll try my best to get back to you in a timely manner. Thanks everyone.
- K. Becks
Since the wildcard games start today, I've decided to give my picks for the games. Each week I'll make new picks as we work our way down to two teams. This year's matchups are particularly interesting, especially since many of these teams played each other just last week.
AFC Wildcard
New York vs. Cincinnati
I don't think that Cincinnati should be extremely concerned about last week's performance (other than the fact that they couldn't catch the ball). Carson Palmer needs to have a solid game against the tough Jets passing defense for Cincinnati to win. If he can do that, and Cincinnati can make Jets QB Mark Sanchez look like a nervous rookie in his first playoff appearance, then they will play another week.
Final Score: 24-17 Cincinnati
Baltimore vs. New England
The Patriots are pretty banged up heading into this one. Without wideout Wes Welker (say that one 5 times fast), guys such as Julian Edelman are going to have to step up big time. If the Ravens want to win this one, then RB Willis McGahee is going to need to gouge the Patriot defense much like he did last week against Oakland. The Patriots are 8-0 at home this season, and are also a perfect 7-0 at Gillette Stadium in the playoffs, but I think that the Ravens have the ability to win a close one. This game could be the most interesting of the wildcard weekend.
Final Score: 20-14 Baltimore
NFC Wildcard
Philadelphia vs. Dallas
This is probably the most anticipated matchup of the weekend. We will finally get to see if Tony Romo and Wade Phillips can win in the playoffs. Philadelphia has yet to beat Dallas this season, and trying to do that in Dallas will be no easy task. Time is running out for Donovan McNabb to get his Super Bowl ring, so he is going to need to play much better than he did last week if he wants to keep his season alive. Making Tony Romo revert to his previous late season play will be key for the Philly defense, and I think that they are capable of doing that.
Final Score: 35-33 Philadelphia
Green Bay vs. Arizona
This is my favorite game this weekend. I really don't want to see either team lose, because both have major upsides that are capable of taking them to the Super Bowl. Green Bay is one of the hottest teams in football right now, and QB Aaron Rodgers has been making people in Green Bay say "Brett who?" Arizona faces a tall task in stopping Rodgers, and I just don't see them doing it well enough. This game should be closer than last week's, but the "W" will go to the same team.
Final Score: 34-24 Packers
Like my picks? Think I have no idea what I'm talking about? I'd love to hear your comments. Shoot me an email at aroundthecornsportsblog@gmail.com or post a comment under this entry, and I'll try my best to get back to you in a timely manner. Thanks everyone.
- K. Becks
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