I never thought I'd see this day. I always thought that because Terry Francona did so much for the Red Sox organization that he would never have to leave. But after a 7-20 September and failing to reach the playoffs for a second straight season, the Red Sox and Terry have agreed it's time to move on. Francona asked to be released from his contract with the Red Sox and the team obliged him. Of course the organization thanked Tito for everything he has done: having a record of 744-522, a winning percentage of .574 (second best since 2004), and winning their first World Series title in 86 years followed by a second 3 years later. WHY ARE WE GETTING RID OF THIS GUY!!!
He's been the manager that have won two World Series titles. He was part of the greatest comeback in baseball history. He lead the team that broke the Curse of the Bambino for Heaven's sake. Why is he leaving? Apparently because of his laid back attitude and a lack of getting through to the players. I call BS on that. They did it (and there was no doubt the team wanted a change) because of one bad month that cost the Red Sox a postseason appearance which is something out of the manager's hands. It's not his fault the pitching has been bad. It's not his fault that Carl Crawford has underperformed. It's not his fault that injuries have affected the team.
I will recognize that some blame falls on the manager. But blame also has to fall on the players, the injury bug, and team management including Theo Epstein for putting the team together. Which brings up the question is Epstein going to go next? Unlikely seems to be word right now as John Henry apparently likes him. As much as blame needs to be spread, I don't want Epstein to go anywhere either. He had a hand in the two World Series titles just like Francona. The big question is always how much did either guy impact the team to getting two titles. I guess we will find out with a new Red Sox manager.
To wrap up, I would like to say thank you, Tito. I will never forget the two World Series titles and the memories along the way. In my eyes, Terry Francona is a legend and is forever immortalized not just to me but to every citizen of the Red Sox Nation. Thank You.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
WHY!!!
In early September, the Red Sox had a 9 game lead in the AL Wild Card and practically had a seat reserved for October. I must say a lot can change in a month. August was crap for the Giants and September was crap for the Red Sox. The Sox were 83-52 to start the month. After their loss to the Orioles just last night, 4-3, they finished the season 90-72. Only 7 wins in the month of September. 7 FOR F**K'S SAKE!!! We lost 20 games in this month alone. This is an inexcusable drop off.
Meanwhile, the Rays were 74-61 to start the month. At the end, they finished with a 91-71 record winning 17 of their 27 games in the month including beating the Yankees last night, who had a 7-0 lead entering the bottom of the 8th, in walk off fashion thanks to a Longoria Home Run in the bottom of the 12th by a final of 8-7. Rays have won 6 of their last 7 games and are entering the postseason as the AL Wild Card team instead of the Sox.
At least the Red Sox aren't the only horrible team screwing up leads. The Braves had just as big a collapse if not a bit bigger. Sorry, Atlanta, have to bash someone else to feel good. They had a 10 1/2 game lead over the Cardinals in late August and a 8 1/2 game lead over them in early September. They too squandered their playoff spot by having a bad month and by losing last night to the Phillies, 4-3, while the Cardinals destroyed the Astros, 8-0.
There it is, folks. The Cardinals and the Rays are in the postseason instead of the Braves and the Red Sox. Two monumental collapses at the same time. Both my World Series Picks, Red Sox and Giants, are out and they're both my favorite teams. This is going to be one long October.
P.S. Tune into the Sports Khan today at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good... If I'm not depressed.
Meanwhile, the Rays were 74-61 to start the month. At the end, they finished with a 91-71 record winning 17 of their 27 games in the month including beating the Yankees last night, who had a 7-0 lead entering the bottom of the 8th, in walk off fashion thanks to a Longoria Home Run in the bottom of the 12th by a final of 8-7. Rays have won 6 of their last 7 games and are entering the postseason as the AL Wild Card team instead of the Sox.
At least the Red Sox aren't the only horrible team screwing up leads. The Braves had just as big a collapse if not a bit bigger. Sorry, Atlanta, have to bash someone else to feel good. They had a 10 1/2 game lead over the Cardinals in late August and a 8 1/2 game lead over them in early September. They too squandered their playoff spot by having a bad month and by losing last night to the Phillies, 4-3, while the Cardinals destroyed the Astros, 8-0.
There it is, folks. The Cardinals and the Rays are in the postseason instead of the Braves and the Red Sox. Two monumental collapses at the same time. Both my World Series Picks, Red Sox and Giants, are out and they're both my favorite teams. This is going to be one long October.
P.S. Tune into the Sports Khan today at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good... If I'm not depressed.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Ozzie Leaving the Southside
Certainly a shocking bit of news across the baseball world. Ozzie Guillen, the manager of the Chicago White Sox, has said that this was going to be his last year with the team and asked to be released from the organization. The White Sox complied with Ozzie, granting his request, and thanked him for years of service. Why leave the Southside of Chicago? He's taking his swearing to South Beach like every other outspoken star. Word is that Guillen will be the manager of the Florida Mar... I mean the Miami Marlins in 2012. That's right. Ozzie will be the manager of the slightly name changing Miami Marlins as they enter their new ballpark next season.
I have to say I will miss Ozzie in a White Sox uniform. He and the team just seemed like a perfect fit. They have had some good times as well, especially with a World Series victory in 2005. But managers and coaches move on. Nothing stays the same. As for the Marlins, this looks like a good move. Nothing like a outspoken manager to try and lift a club for their first year in a actual baseball stadium. Good Luck to Ozzie and good luck to the White Sox in finding a new manager. There isn't that many managers available that are as exciting as Ozzie Guillen.
P.S. That guy is F**king great.
I have to say I will miss Ozzie in a White Sox uniform. He and the team just seemed like a perfect fit. They have had some good times as well, especially with a World Series victory in 2005. But managers and coaches move on. Nothing stays the same. As for the Marlins, this looks like a good move. Nothing like a outspoken manager to try and lift a club for their first year in a actual baseball stadium. Good Luck to Ozzie and good luck to the White Sox in finding a new manager. There isn't that many managers available that are as exciting as Ozzie Guillen.
P.S. That guy is F**king great.
You BETTER of Won
Like last week, I didn't get much of a chance to watch the 49ers game. They went to Cincinnati to play the Bengals. It seemed to be a rather defensive game considering the final score and the fact it was 3 all entering the fourth quarter. I thought the niners were going to screw this one up as well but they did get it right. Credit Alex Smith for leading the team downfield for a go ahead TD scored by Kendall Hunter on the ground. Made some nice throws and Vernon Davis made some nice plays. We managed to hold them off near the end and thank goodness. 49ers win, 13-8 (Andy Lee ran it out of the endzone for a safety to run down the clock further) and are 2-1 on the season.
Feel a bit bad for the rookie QB Andy Dalton throwing two INTs near the end to shoot his own team in the foot. He's still learning. As for the niners, they should've done better. A win's a win but this one should've been bigger going against a rookie QB like Dalton. Seeing how the team has played, the next few games can be winnable for the team. If Vick doesn't play next week for the Eagles, the 49ers will have a decent chance. Good shot also against the Bucs the following week seeing as to how they are playing (though they did beat the Falcons). The Lions are a likely loss but the Browns game following is winnable. Get a couple wins over the next five weeks (bye week between the Lions and the Browns) and the 49ers will be in good shape.
Feel a bit bad for the rookie QB Andy Dalton throwing two INTs near the end to shoot his own team in the foot. He's still learning. As for the niners, they should've done better. A win's a win but this one should've been bigger going against a rookie QB like Dalton. Seeing how the team has played, the next few games can be winnable for the team. If Vick doesn't play next week for the Eagles, the 49ers will have a decent chance. Good shot also against the Bucs the following week seeing as to how they are playing (though they did beat the Falcons). The Lions are a likely loss but the Browns game following is winnable. Get a couple wins over the next five weeks (bye week between the Lions and the Browns) and the 49ers will be in good shape.
Bills Upset Pats, Vick Gets Hurt Again, Lions 3-0 and More
What a Sunday of football around the NFL. Week 3 commenced yesterday and ends tonight. As for yesterday's highlights, the biggest spotlight goes on Buffalo? The Bills have lost 15 straight to the Pats and it looked like it was going to be 16 in row going down 21-0 early in the game. But the Bills refused to go out without a fight like last week. They fought and clawed their way back to tie the game at 24 in the 4th. Then they took the lead thanks to Brady? An INT returned by Drayton Florence for a 27 yard TD. Pats would tie the game at 31 but the Bills got the ball after that and drove down the field, got near the goal line, and wasted the clock so Rian Lindell could kick a 28 yard FG to win it with no time remaining. Bills win it, 34-31, and party like they won the Super Bowl. They are, believe it or not, 3-0 and leading the AFC East.
Part of the reason they lead the AFC East is the Oakland Raiders. The Jets went to Oakland where the Raiders played pin cushion with Mark Sanchez in the second half sacking 4 times. The Raiders score 2 TD within a minute's time (thanks to a Cromartie fumble on the Kick Off) and went up by 2 TDs. It become too much for the Jets to come back from and the Raiders won it, 34-24. Darren McFadden was a big reason for the win with 171 yards in 19 carries and 2 Rushing TDs.
In the rest of the NFL, the Eagles Dream Team seems to be turning into a nightmare so far. Michael Vick was cleared to play in Sunday's game, despite a concussion last week, and breaks his right hand this week vs. the Giants. By the way Vick sounded off, he wants some better protection by the refs. Giants win the game, 29-16. The NFC North had a couple of interesting battles. First, the Packers went to Chicago to face the Bears continuing the oldest rivalry in pro football. 297 passing yards, 3 TDs, and one INT for Aaron Rodgers as the Packers win the NFC Title rematch, 27-17. Where is the running for the Bears? Only 13 yards on 12 carries? 11 by Cutler? That is bad. The other battle was the Lions facing the Vikings and pulling off a 2nd half comeback after being down 20-0. Lions fight back and win it in OT, 26-23. 3-0 for the first time since 1980. That feels weird to say.
Other games included are the Bucs surviving against the Falcons, 16-13, Saints beating the Texans, 40-33, Cam Newton and the Panthers winning the rookie QB challenge over the Jags, 16-10, and the Steelers getting pushed to the limit as they edge out the Colts, 23-20.
Great week 3 so far as it will be capped off tonight with Redskins vs. Cowboys. GO REDSKINS!!!
P.S. Brady 4 TDs but 4 INTs? That has to improved.
Part of the reason they lead the AFC East is the Oakland Raiders. The Jets went to Oakland where the Raiders played pin cushion with Mark Sanchez in the second half sacking 4 times. The Raiders score 2 TD within a minute's time (thanks to a Cromartie fumble on the Kick Off) and went up by 2 TDs. It become too much for the Jets to come back from and the Raiders won it, 34-24. Darren McFadden was a big reason for the win with 171 yards in 19 carries and 2 Rushing TDs.
In the rest of the NFL, the Eagles Dream Team seems to be turning into a nightmare so far. Michael Vick was cleared to play in Sunday's game, despite a concussion last week, and breaks his right hand this week vs. the Giants. By the way Vick sounded off, he wants some better protection by the refs. Giants win the game, 29-16. The NFC North had a couple of interesting battles. First, the Packers went to Chicago to face the Bears continuing the oldest rivalry in pro football. 297 passing yards, 3 TDs, and one INT for Aaron Rodgers as the Packers win the NFC Title rematch, 27-17. Where is the running for the Bears? Only 13 yards on 12 carries? 11 by Cutler? That is bad. The other battle was the Lions facing the Vikings and pulling off a 2nd half comeback after being down 20-0. Lions fight back and win it in OT, 26-23. 3-0 for the first time since 1980. That feels weird to say.
Other games included are the Bucs surviving against the Falcons, 16-13, Saints beating the Texans, 40-33, Cam Newton and the Panthers winning the rookie QB challenge over the Jags, 16-10, and the Steelers getting pushed to the limit as they edge out the Colts, 23-20.
Great week 3 so far as it will be capped off tonight with Redskins vs. Cowboys. GO REDSKINS!!!
P.S. Brady 4 TDs but 4 INTs? That has to improved.
Friday, September 23, 2011
D'Backs Claim the West
I haven't written about baseball a lot recently what with the Giants and the Red Sox struggling so much. Today might be an exception to my silence. The Giants were 6 back of the D'Backs and were basically playing to stay alive in the NL West race. They squared off against the D'Backs in Arizona in the first of a 3 game series. We had the lead for most of the game until Arizona tied it in the 7th and then Goldschmidt hit a two run triple in the 8th. J.J. Putz saved it for the D'Backs in the 9th and sealed our fate. Arizona wins the game, 3-1, and wins the NL West.
I must this has been an inevitability for a while and quite frankly I'm okay with it. I'm depressed that the Giants won't get into the playoffs this year but I remember the fact that they won it all last year and as the underdogs going into the postseason. A great memory that can never be taken away. The D'Backs just wanted it more this year and they deserved it. We had plenty of opportunities to win the division and blew it.
Congrats to the D'Backs for winning the NL West. I hope the Phillies kick your a**.
P.S. Just cause I'm understanding doesn't mean I not wishing for their demise.
I must this has been an inevitability for a while and quite frankly I'm okay with it. I'm depressed that the Giants won't get into the playoffs this year but I remember the fact that they won it all last year and as the underdogs going into the postseason. A great memory that can never be taken away. The D'Backs just wanted it more this year and they deserved it. We had plenty of opportunities to win the division and blew it.
Congrats to the D'Backs for winning the NL West. I hope the Phillies kick your a**.
P.S. Just cause I'm understanding doesn't mean I not wishing for their demise.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Diving in American Football
Diving has always been an issue in soccer. Players often dive to try and get free kicks, penalty kicks, and even to try and get the other players carded for... I'm sorry. We're apparently talking about American Football and not Association Football or Soccer.
In the Monday night game the other night, there seemed to be a case of Diving in the NFL. Deon Grant and Jacquin Williams of the Giants both went down to the ground as if to feign an injury but only Grant stayed down what with Williams seeing his player already doing so. The Rams were running a no huddle offense and were trying to exhaust the Giants. This dive seemed to be aimed at slowing the Rams offense down and getting the Giants defense a breather. The Rams filed a claim with the league saying the Giants feigned injuries to disrupt the Rams offensive tempo.
HA HA HA HA!!! THERE'S DIVING IN THE NFL. I guess there has always been diving in the NFL but that it wasn't covered that much. This, however, gets national attention and it happened to a New York team. I'm sorry, because of a New York team. How can the NFL address this in the future? Fines, penalties, loss of timeouts, take your pick. The problem is still identifying them. Diving is a little easier to spot in Soccer. The NFL can be a bit difficult what with all the brutal plays and the toll hits take a person's body.
This seems like a none issue because you never hear it that much but I never played football so specific things like this sort of go over my head.
In the Monday night game the other night, there seemed to be a case of Diving in the NFL. Deon Grant and Jacquin Williams of the Giants both went down to the ground as if to feign an injury but only Grant stayed down what with Williams seeing his player already doing so. The Rams were running a no huddle offense and were trying to exhaust the Giants. This dive seemed to be aimed at slowing the Rams offense down and getting the Giants defense a breather. The Rams filed a claim with the league saying the Giants feigned injuries to disrupt the Rams offensive tempo.
HA HA HA HA!!! THERE'S DIVING IN THE NFL. I guess there has always been diving in the NFL but that it wasn't covered that much. This, however, gets national attention and it happened to a New York team. I'm sorry, because of a New York team. How can the NFL address this in the future? Fines, penalties, loss of timeouts, take your pick. The problem is still identifying them. Diving is a little easier to spot in Soccer. The NFL can be a bit difficult what with all the brutal plays and the toll hits take a person's body.
This seems like a none issue because you never hear it that much but I never played football so specific things like this sort of go over my head.
Pac-12 Not Expanding
More potential Conference shifts were the subject of yesterday or should I say a lack of Conference shifts. It was assumed by many (at least by me) that the Pac-12 would expand to 16 with 4 Big 12 teams wanting to abandon ship after Texas A&M had done so. However, this process of expansion has halted and maybe for good. The Pac-12 has said it won't expand further because of a lack of assurances from Texas that they would back equal revenue sharing. The deal would've added Texas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Texas Tech.
Okay, so the deal didn't get done. It was still all about the money. Just about sharing it and how Texas doesn't want to share with new friends letting him play ball with them. A bit too toddlery there but I believe I made my point. Looks like the Big 12 will survive after all... for now. I wonder if they will be able to get a 10th team to join their conference or will they just settle with 9 for now.
I guess the super conference of the west coast will not happen. As for the East, that seems well underway in the ACC.
Okay, so the deal didn't get done. It was still all about the money. Just about sharing it and how Texas doesn't want to share with new friends letting him play ball with them. A bit too toddlery there but I believe I made my point. Looks like the Big 12 will survive after all... for now. I wonder if they will be able to get a 10th team to join their conference or will they just settle with 9 for now.
I guess the super conference of the west coast will not happen. As for the East, that seems well underway in the ACC.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Mariano Rivera is Truly the Greatest Closer Ever
There is continual debates today about who is the best all time baseball player at each position. So many have different roster lists for every position and most can't even agree on who would be the number 1 starting pitcher. There is one guy, however, that everyone has on there All Time team and he is on the New York Yankees still making history.
It was just last week that Mariano Rivera got his 600th save and he was already looking for more history to break. He had tied Trevor Hoffman on Saturday for the All Time Saves record and was looking to break it tonight. The Yankees played the Twins earlier and the 9th inning came and called for Rivera to make a save. After getting a ground out and a fly out, Rivera managed to strike out Chris Parmelee to end the game and record his 602nd career save. Yanks win, 6-4. Rivera is now the All Time Saves leader.
Rivera was already the greatest reliever of All Time and this just cements his legacy. He has saved so many big regular season games along with World Series games. Rivera has always been a clutch closer and even though he is 41, he is still feared by batters around the league. Historians will debate who the greatest position players are in baseball history but no one will ever debate who the greatest closer is of all time and that is Mariano Rivera.
It was just last week that Mariano Rivera got his 600th save and he was already looking for more history to break. He had tied Trevor Hoffman on Saturday for the All Time Saves record and was looking to break it tonight. The Yankees played the Twins earlier and the 9th inning came and called for Rivera to make a save. After getting a ground out and a fly out, Rivera managed to strike out Chris Parmelee to end the game and record his 602nd career save. Yanks win, 6-4. Rivera is now the All Time Saves leader.
Rivera was already the greatest reliever of All Time and this just cements his legacy. He has saved so many big regular season games along with World Series games. Rivera has always been a clutch closer and even though he is 41, he is still feared by batters around the league. Historians will debate who the greatest position players are in baseball history but no one will ever debate who the greatest closer is of all time and that is Mariano Rivera.
ACC to Get a Bit Bigger
More Conference talk happened yesterday and while part of the highlight was the talk of a bigger Pac conference, there was some finality on the other side of the country. The ACC has accepted two new schools into their conference (not immediately) and they are Pittsburgh and Syracuse. Both team are currently members of the Big East and have to give the conference 27 months notice of their intent on leaving but that appears to be something that can be negotiated.
The Big 12 is already limping to the barn and it looks like the Big East might be right behind it. Both Pitt and Syracuse are nice additions to the Conference and no doubt the cash, I mean "player benefits" are greater in the ACC. However, I still wonder how good this is for college football and athletics overall. Conferences being wiped out in order for the larger ones to prevail just seems wrong. Also, what will become of the smaller conferences like the MWC? Will they have any relevancy in the future?
The move towards 4 super conferences is imminent but I have my doubts on whether it's the best thing college athletics. Doubts like player travel and endurance, new polling systems, the other sports, and whether players' concerns are actually being considered.
The Big 12 is already limping to the barn and it looks like the Big East might be right behind it. Both Pitt and Syracuse are nice additions to the Conference and no doubt the cash, I mean "player benefits" are greater in the ACC. However, I still wonder how good this is for college football and athletics overall. Conferences being wiped out in order for the larger ones to prevail just seems wrong. Also, what will become of the smaller conferences like the MWC? Will they have any relevancy in the future?
The move towards 4 super conferences is imminent but I have my doubts on whether it's the best thing college athletics. Doubts like player travel and endurance, new polling systems, the other sports, and whether players' concerns are actually being considered.
DAMN YOU, ROMO!!!
After making a couple major errors that cost the Cowboys the game last week vs. the Jets, Tony Romo made what could be called a statement game. The media has been bashing him, perhaps unfairly, and anyone under that big of microscope would want them to stop. Tony Romo might have silenced his critics for the time being thanks to a great performance yesterday. The Cowboys had another road test and they were down by ten in the 4th quarter. Romo, who had come back in despite having a couple fractured ribs, managed a comeback tie to send it into OT. After the Cowboys defense held their own, the Cowboys got it in OT and their first play was a 77 yard pass to Jesse Holley where he would be stopped at the one. The FG team came out and kicked in the game winner. Cowboys win, 27-24.
A great game for Romo in which I would actually applaud him for the most part. There was only one thing stopping me from doing that: HE DID IT AGAINST MY BELOVED 49ERS!!! The sad part is that Alex Smith had a decent game going 16/27 with 179 passing yards, 2 TDs and only one INT. That isn't that bad. But Romo comes in and makes a few great drives at the end to ruin the whole thing. I hope those ribs hurt.
I guess I shouldn't be too mad. We had a ten point lead in the 4th against the Cowboys. We could've been blown out but we weren't. That's something to be positive about, right?
P.S. On Second thought, no it's not. DAMN YOU, ROMO!!!
A great game for Romo in which I would actually applaud him for the most part. There was only one thing stopping me from doing that: HE DID IT AGAINST MY BELOVED 49ERS!!! The sad part is that Alex Smith had a decent game going 16/27 with 179 passing yards, 2 TDs and only one INT. That isn't that bad. But Romo comes in and makes a few great drives at the end to ruin the whole thing. I hope those ribs hurt.
I guess I shouldn't be too mad. We had a ten point lead in the 4th against the Cowboys. We could've been blown out but we weren't. That's something to be positive about, right?
P.S. On Second thought, no it's not. DAMN YOU, ROMO!!!
Vick Gets Hurt in Return to Atlanta, My Pick Rebounds, Another Big Game for Newton and More
Week 2 of the NFL was for the most part played yesterday with the last game being tonight. Of those that have played, the highlight was once again the Sunday Night game this time featuring the Philadelphia Eagles vs. the Atlanta Falcons. It was a big night for Michael Vick as it was his first time returning to Atlanta since he was arrested. It was fair night for him stat wise but that's all forgotten now that Vick has suffered a concussion after being pulled down by a defender and hitting his head against a fellow teammate. He left in the third and was unable to comeback.
The Falcons would take this opportunity to score two TDs with Vick gone and managed to win the game, 35-31. Matt Ryan was 17/28 and threw for 195 yards, 4 TDs and 2 INTs. The replacement for Vick, Mike Kafka, was actually pretty good but wasn't able to make a comeback partly due to a drop pass by Jeremy Maclin, who had a great night until them, on 4th down with less than 2 minutes to go.
As for some other games around the league, The Buccaneers would rebound this week beating the Vikings in Minnesota, 24-20. A nice end of the game drive by Josh Freeman was capped off by LaGarrette Blount scoring a rushing TD to win the game. Their NFC South rivals, the Carolina Panthers, hosted the Green Bay Packers and Cam Newton had another big yardage day. While he did throw 3 INTs, he also threw 1 TD along with 432 yards. The Panthers did still lose, 30-23, but Newton gave a solid effort against the Champs. The only QB in the league to have more passing yards than Newton so far is Tom Brady. In the Pats home opener against the Chargers, Brady threw for 423 Yards and 3 TDs. The Pats would win, 35-21. Brady has 940 passing yards already while Newton is 2nd in the NFL with 854.
Meanwhile, Drew Brees and the Saints win their home opener vs. the Bears, 30-13. Drew Brees was 26/37 and threw for 270 Yards and 3 TDs in the win. It looks to be a rough season ahead for the Chiefs as they lose another blowout, 48-3, this time to the Lions. What's worse is that Jamaal Charles looks to be done for the season with a torn ACL. Jets destroy the Jaguars, 32-3, with Luke McCown getting picked off 4 times. I bet Jacksonville wishes they still had David Garrard. The Bills win a wild one at home, 38-35, over the Raiders after a Hail Mail throw was intercepted by Da'Norris Searcy of Bills having to win it away from Denarius Moore of the Raiders. That came after Ryan Fitzpatrick threw the game winning TD to David Nelson with 14 seconds left.
A very busy Sunday in the NFL. I forgot to mention so much as well like the Steelers rebounding with a win over the Seahawks, Titans beat the Ravens, and the Redskins are now 2-0 after edging out the Cardinals. But I guess that will have to go unsaid.
The Falcons would take this opportunity to score two TDs with Vick gone and managed to win the game, 35-31. Matt Ryan was 17/28 and threw for 195 yards, 4 TDs and 2 INTs. The replacement for Vick, Mike Kafka, was actually pretty good but wasn't able to make a comeback partly due to a drop pass by Jeremy Maclin, who had a great night until them, on 4th down with less than 2 minutes to go.
As for some other games around the league, The Buccaneers would rebound this week beating the Vikings in Minnesota, 24-20. A nice end of the game drive by Josh Freeman was capped off by LaGarrette Blount scoring a rushing TD to win the game. Their NFC South rivals, the Carolina Panthers, hosted the Green Bay Packers and Cam Newton had another big yardage day. While he did throw 3 INTs, he also threw 1 TD along with 432 yards. The Panthers did still lose, 30-23, but Newton gave a solid effort against the Champs. The only QB in the league to have more passing yards than Newton so far is Tom Brady. In the Pats home opener against the Chargers, Brady threw for 423 Yards and 3 TDs. The Pats would win, 35-21. Brady has 940 passing yards already while Newton is 2nd in the NFL with 854.
Meanwhile, Drew Brees and the Saints win their home opener vs. the Bears, 30-13. Drew Brees was 26/37 and threw for 270 Yards and 3 TDs in the win. It looks to be a rough season ahead for the Chiefs as they lose another blowout, 48-3, this time to the Lions. What's worse is that Jamaal Charles looks to be done for the season with a torn ACL. Jets destroy the Jaguars, 32-3, with Luke McCown getting picked off 4 times. I bet Jacksonville wishes they still had David Garrard. The Bills win a wild one at home, 38-35, over the Raiders after a Hail Mail throw was intercepted by Da'Norris Searcy of Bills having to win it away from Denarius Moore of the Raiders. That came after Ryan Fitzpatrick threw the game winning TD to David Nelson with 14 seconds left.
A very busy Sunday in the NFL. I forgot to mention so much as well like the Steelers rebounding with a win over the Seahawks, Titans beat the Ravens, and the Redskins are now 2-0 after edging out the Cardinals. But I guess that will have to go unsaid.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Sooners Win in Tallahassee, Auburn's Winning Streak Ends, Stanford Beats Arizona and More
A huge road test for the Sooners as they go into Tallahassee for the first time ever. They faced the Florida State Seminoles and the Noles themselves saw this as a test to prove they were a top team once again. The Noles were in it most of this game but their QB was out with an injury. FSU, though, somehow came back from a 13-3 deficit and tied the game in the 4th thanks to a great catch and run by Rashad Greene for 56 yards from Clinton Trickett. However, Oklahoma would not be denied and within 3 minutes took the lead back with a TD pass from Landry Jones to Kenny Stills for 37 yards. The Sooners added a FG later and won the game 23-13. A big win for the Sooners as they will no doubt stay at the #1 spot.
As for the other games across the nation, the Auburn winning streak comes to end at 17. Clemson faced them at home and won the game 38-24. Tahj Boyd threw for 386 yards and 4 TDs in the victory for Clemson. As for another team within the state, the South Carolina Gamecocks, who are ranked #10 in the country, survived against the Navy, 24-21. Navy was leading going into the 4th but Marcus Lattimore scored in the early minutes of that quarter to give the Gamecocks the lead back for good. Other SEC member, Alabama, had no trouble against North Texas defeating them 41-0. Trent Richardson ran the ball only 11 times but for 167 yards and 3 TDs. Eddie Lacy nearly matched him with 161 yards in 9 carries and 2 TDs.
In the Pac-12, Stanford went to Tuscon to face conference rival, Arizona. Arizona kept it close through the 1st half but Andrew Luck would finally get some separation and keep it. He threw 2 TDs to get them a 20 point lead and then Jeremy Stewert tacked on another TD with less than 5 minutes left. Stanford wins, 37-10. The Oregon Ducks continue to climb back to relevancy destroying Missouri State at home, 56-7. LaMichael James lead the combined 416 yards of rushing with 204 yards and 3 TDs. The Washington Huskies lost to Nebraska, 51-38, despite making a bit of a run in the 4th quarter. A combined 309 rushing yards is headlined by Rex Burkhead who ran for 120 and 2 TDs for the Cornhuskers.
A nice showing around the collegiate world. Looks like the Seminoles are not quite ready for a National Title yet. A Orange Bowl, perhaps. Meanwhile, the Sooners remain on top and prove why they belong.
P.S. Don't forget to tune into the Sports Khan Radio Show every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
As for the other games across the nation, the Auburn winning streak comes to end at 17. Clemson faced them at home and won the game 38-24. Tahj Boyd threw for 386 yards and 4 TDs in the victory for Clemson. As for another team within the state, the South Carolina Gamecocks, who are ranked #10 in the country, survived against the Navy, 24-21. Navy was leading going into the 4th but Marcus Lattimore scored in the early minutes of that quarter to give the Gamecocks the lead back for good. Other SEC member, Alabama, had no trouble against North Texas defeating them 41-0. Trent Richardson ran the ball only 11 times but for 167 yards and 3 TDs. Eddie Lacy nearly matched him with 161 yards in 9 carries and 2 TDs.
In the Pac-12, Stanford went to Tuscon to face conference rival, Arizona. Arizona kept it close through the 1st half but Andrew Luck would finally get some separation and keep it. He threw 2 TDs to get them a 20 point lead and then Jeremy Stewert tacked on another TD with less than 5 minutes left. Stanford wins, 37-10. The Oregon Ducks continue to climb back to relevancy destroying Missouri State at home, 56-7. LaMichael James lead the combined 416 yards of rushing with 204 yards and 3 TDs. The Washington Huskies lost to Nebraska, 51-38, despite making a bit of a run in the 4th quarter. A combined 309 rushing yards is headlined by Rex Burkhead who ran for 120 and 2 TDs for the Cornhuskers.
A nice showing around the collegiate world. Looks like the Seminoles are not quite ready for a National Title yet. A Orange Bowl, perhaps. Meanwhile, the Sooners remain on top and prove why they belong.
P.S. Don't forget to tune into the Sports Khan Radio Show every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Cycle for Kung Fu Panda
These last couple of months have been a bit abysmal for the Giants. They are seemingly out of the NL West race and are just playing for pride. This week has actually been good for them as they have just won their 5th game in a row with the most recent win coming against the Rockies, 8-5. One player in particular had a historic performance. The Panda Bear known as Pablo Sandoval managed to pull of the cycle. He first homered, then singled, then doubled, and then managed to get the triple in the 6th seeing the ball go past Carlos Gonzalez. The Panda Bear becomes the 25th Giant to ever hit for the cycle.
Last night was a great moment for the Giants. Sandoval has been very good for the team all year with a .308 avg, 20 HRs, and 63 RBIs. He has been the one consistent bright spot in that Giants lineup and last night showed why.
Last night was a great moment for the Giants. Sandoval has been very good for the team all year with a .308 avg, 20 HRs, and 63 RBIs. He has been the one consistent bright spot in that Giants lineup and last night showed why.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Mariano Rivera Gets 600th Save While Wakefield Gets 200th Win
A couple of milestones were reached yesterday in the world of the baseball. One was Tim Wakefield finally getting his 200th career win while the Red Sox defeated the Blue Jays, 18-6. Wakefield finally gets it on his 8th try. You look at all he had to go through to get this achievement and you can't help but feel some sense of relief that he finally did it. Despite being the oldest active player in baseball (45), he's the 2nd oldest player to reach 200 wins.
The other milestone was, admittedly, a much bigger deal in baseball. It had to do with the man that every batter doesn't want to face at the end of a game and that is Mariano Rivera. The Yankees beat the Mariners last night, 3-2, but more importantly Rivera came in the 9th and recorded his 600th save of his career. He becomes the 2nd player to reach that milestone and is actually only one save behind the All Time leader and that's Trevor Hoffman. While the season is certainly coming to close, there is a realistic chance that Rivera will break that record before the marathon ends.
Congrats to both pitchers for their achievements. While they are certainly both near the end of their careers, one must think they have a little something more left in the tank.
P.S. Don't forget to listen to the Sports Khan Radio Show every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
The other milestone was, admittedly, a much bigger deal in baseball. It had to do with the man that every batter doesn't want to face at the end of a game and that is Mariano Rivera. The Yankees beat the Mariners last night, 3-2, but more importantly Rivera came in the 9th and recorded his 600th save of his career. He becomes the 2nd player to reach that milestone and is actually only one save behind the All Time leader and that's Trevor Hoffman. While the season is certainly coming to close, there is a realistic chance that Rivera will break that record before the marathon ends.
Congrats to both pitchers for their achievements. While they are certainly both near the end of their careers, one must think they have a little something more left in the tank.
P.S. Don't forget to listen to the Sports Khan Radio Show every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Djokovic Claims Another Grand Slam
Yesterday was the final day of the US Open thanks to a bit of a rain delay and the Men's Final featured Rafael Nadal v. Novak Djokovic. Novak has owned Nadal on the court this whole year and this match wouldn't be any different. Despite being a bit sore, Djokovic managed to beat Rafael Nadal in 4 sets 6-2, 6-4, 6-7 (3), 6-1 and win the US Open on the men's side. This win was Djokovic's 4t Grand Slam Title and 3rd one this year. Djokovic only has one more Grand Slam event to claim in his career and that is the French Open.
But of course there is no need to worry about that now. Sit back and enjoy the win. Congrats to Novak Djokovic on winning the 2011 US Open. You truly are the most dominate player on the men's side.
P.S. As the year in tennis comes to a close, one thing stands out and that is that Roger Federer did not win a Grand Slam in 2011. The last one he claimed was the Australian Open back in 2010. Perhaps Federer's time to shine has come to a close for good.
But of course there is no need to worry about that now. Sit back and enjoy the win. Congrats to Novak Djokovic on winning the 2011 US Open. You truly are the most dominate player on the men's side.
P.S. As the year in tennis comes to a close, one thing stands out and that is that Roger Federer did not win a Grand Slam in 2011. The last one he claimed was the Australian Open back in 2010. Perhaps Federer's time to shine has come to a close for good.
Brady Lead Pats to Victory in Miami and Raiders Run Out Broncos
The first Monday Night for Football always has a double header attached to it. The first game featured was the Patriots going to Miami to face the Dolphins. As usual, the story for both teams were the QB's. Chad Henne has been shaky to say the least so far in the NFL but today he seemed alright. He was 30/49 and threw for 416 yards, 2 TDs, and 1 INT. Nice numbers if he wasn't going against Tom Brady. Brady scorched the field going 32/48, throwing for 517 yards (team record), 4 TDs, and 1 INT. Brady ruled the day pulling the Patriots along to a win, 38-24.
The 2nd game featured was a showdown at Mile High Stadium in Denver between the Raiders and the Broncos. Seemed to be a back and forth thing between these teams was the penalties, 25 combined penalties. Where's the discipline? The star of the game seemed to be Darren McFadden who rushed for 150 yards on 22 carries. Nice effort. As for the QB's, not MVP impressive for either one. Kyle Orton was undoubtedly under the most pressure to succeed. It seemed whenever something bad happened, the crowd screamed for Tebow. Orton was 24/46 throwing for 304 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT. He managed to get within 3 throwing a TD Pass to Lance Ball with 3:43 to go but the Raiders just ran the clock down and sealed the win, 23-20.
An okay pair of games to start off Monday Night Football. That seals week 1 of Football around the NFL. What does week 2 have in store?
P.S. Also, the Broncos are throwing the ball too much. 46 attempts by Orton and only 13 total rushes by the team. Where is the running game?
The 2nd game featured was a showdown at Mile High Stadium in Denver between the Raiders and the Broncos. Seemed to be a back and forth thing between these teams was the penalties, 25 combined penalties. Where's the discipline? The star of the game seemed to be Darren McFadden who rushed for 150 yards on 22 carries. Nice effort. As for the QB's, not MVP impressive for either one. Kyle Orton was undoubtedly under the most pressure to succeed. It seemed whenever something bad happened, the crowd screamed for Tebow. Orton was 24/46 throwing for 304 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT. He managed to get within 3 throwing a TD Pass to Lance Ball with 3:43 to go but the Raiders just ran the clock down and sealed the win, 23-20.
An okay pair of games to start off Monday Night Football. That seals week 1 of Football around the NFL. What does week 2 have in store?
P.S. Also, the Broncos are throwing the ball too much. 46 attempts by Orton and only 13 total rushes by the team. Where is the running game?
Monday, September 12, 2011
Stosur Wins US Open While Serena Loses More Than That
The 2011 US Open has been a bit delayed thanks to the rain but one of the finals has been decided. The Women's Final between Sam Stosur and Serena Williams was played last night and it will be remembered for all the wrong reasons. During the match, Serena yelled loud perhaps too late after she had hit the ball and as a result the point was given to Stosur. She argued with the ump and asked "Aren't you the one who screwed me over last time here? Do you have it out for me? That's totally not cool." She would argue with her throughout the match. Through it all, Stosur beats Serena in straight sets 6-2, 6-3. This is Samantha Stosur's first Grand Slam title.
What is supposed to be a great moment for another player's career turns into another match where Serena lost her cool. Given that she was on probation because of that last aforementioned incident in 2009, Serena can be fined and even suspended from the US Open for next year. I'm not sure this warrants a suspension but it's hard not see some sort of punishment coming for Serena.
Anyway, Congrats to Sam Stosur on winning the 2011 US Open on the women's side. The Men's final is later today featuring Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.
What is supposed to be a great moment for another player's career turns into another match where Serena lost her cool. Given that she was on probation because of that last aforementioned incident in 2009, Serena can be fined and even suspended from the US Open for next year. I'm not sure this warrants a suspension but it's hard not see some sort of punishment coming for Serena.
Anyway, Congrats to Sam Stosur on winning the 2011 US Open on the women's side. The Men's final is later today featuring Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.
Jets Comeback at Home, Cam Newton Rocks his Debut, Colts REALLY Need Manning Back and More
As the majority of the NFL openers were played yesterday, all the games held special ceremonies in remembrance of 9/11 ten years ago. While fans from all over focused on the NFL's first games, I hope that all of you reading this took some time and reflected on all the heroes that stepped up during that tragedy, those that survived and those that gave the ultimate sacrifice for our lives and our freedom.
As to the NFL action itself, the game just across the river from New York City featured the Dallas Cowboys vs. the New York Jets for the whole country to watch. The Cowboys struck early and kept the lead for almost the entire game. The 4th quarter had arrived and the Cowboys had a 14 point lead. However, thanks to a Plaxico Burress TD catch and a block punt that went for a TD, the Jets managed to tie the game with 5 minutes remaining. Thanks to a nice set up by a Darrelle Revis INT, Nick Folk would score the game winning FG with just under 30 seconds remaining. Jets win an emotional game at home, 27-24.
Another game that was supposed to be close was the Steelers-Ravens game. Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers would like to forget this one, however. The Final score turned out to be 35-7 in favor of the Ravens. What did in the Steelers was all the turnovers. 3 INTs and 4 lost fumbles which is 7 turnovers all together. Joe Flacco of the Ravens, meanwhile, just had a great day going for 17/29 with 224 passing yards and 3 TD passes. A great win for the Ravens while the Steelers ball security issues from the Super Bowl seem to still be with them.
The rest of the games had some great stories attached. Cam Newton made his NFL debut as a Panther and while they lost, 28-21, to the Cardinals, Newton seemed to be a pro already. 24/37 for 422 passing yards, 2 TD passes, one TD run, and one INT. Not a bad note to start a pro career with. The Colts, meanwhile, could've used that performance in their game against the Texans. No Manning equals No Win for the Colts. Kerry Collins had ball security issues with 3 fumbles, 2 of them going to the other side. Meanwhile, the Rookie, Ben Tate, filled in nicely for Arian Foster going for 116 yards on 24 carries and getting a rushing TD. Don't stay injured for too long, Foster. Texans win, 34-7. Also, the Lions beat my Super Bowl Pick, the Buccaneers, 27-20, thanks largely to Matthew Stafford. Stafford had a huge day going 24/33 for 305 passing yards, 3 TD passes, and one INT. Anyone have a bag to put on my head?
Some other noteworthy things: Redskins thump the Giants, 28-14. Chargers beat the Vikings with newly arrived, Donovan McNabb, 24-17. And the Bills make some noise by destroying the Chiefs, 41-7. That and some other unmentioned games made this a solid day of Football.
P.S. Don't forget to listen to the Sports Khan every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
As to the NFL action itself, the game just across the river from New York City featured the Dallas Cowboys vs. the New York Jets for the whole country to watch. The Cowboys struck early and kept the lead for almost the entire game. The 4th quarter had arrived and the Cowboys had a 14 point lead. However, thanks to a Plaxico Burress TD catch and a block punt that went for a TD, the Jets managed to tie the game with 5 minutes remaining. Thanks to a nice set up by a Darrelle Revis INT, Nick Folk would score the game winning FG with just under 30 seconds remaining. Jets win an emotional game at home, 27-24.
Another game that was supposed to be close was the Steelers-Ravens game. Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers would like to forget this one, however. The Final score turned out to be 35-7 in favor of the Ravens. What did in the Steelers was all the turnovers. 3 INTs and 4 lost fumbles which is 7 turnovers all together. Joe Flacco of the Ravens, meanwhile, just had a great day going for 17/29 with 224 passing yards and 3 TD passes. A great win for the Ravens while the Steelers ball security issues from the Super Bowl seem to still be with them.
The rest of the games had some great stories attached. Cam Newton made his NFL debut as a Panther and while they lost, 28-21, to the Cardinals, Newton seemed to be a pro already. 24/37 for 422 passing yards, 2 TD passes, one TD run, and one INT. Not a bad note to start a pro career with. The Colts, meanwhile, could've used that performance in their game against the Texans. No Manning equals No Win for the Colts. Kerry Collins had ball security issues with 3 fumbles, 2 of them going to the other side. Meanwhile, the Rookie, Ben Tate, filled in nicely for Arian Foster going for 116 yards on 24 carries and getting a rushing TD. Don't stay injured for too long, Foster. Texans win, 34-7. Also, the Lions beat my Super Bowl Pick, the Buccaneers, 27-20, thanks largely to Matthew Stafford. Stafford had a huge day going 24/33 for 305 passing yards, 3 TD passes, and one INT. Anyone have a bag to put on my head?
Some other noteworthy things: Redskins thump the Giants, 28-14. Chargers beat the Vikings with newly arrived, Donovan McNabb, 24-17. And the Bills make some noise by destroying the Chiefs, 41-7. That and some other unmentioned games made this a solid day of Football.
P.S. Don't forget to listen to the Sports Khan every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
Niners Win 1st Game in Harbaugh Era
Yesterday was the first games for most of the NFL, including the San Francisco 49ers. It was a home game and against division rivals, the Seattle Seahawks. This was a rare game in that we would actually be favored to win it (TAKE THAT, SEATTLE). It seemed to be a slow game overall with most of the action coming in the 2nd half. Tavaris Jackson of the Seahawks would throw 2 TDs in the 2nd half and, along with a FG, they were only two points behind with just under 4 minutes to go.
What happened next was unthinkable. Ted Ginn Jr. would return the ensuing kickoff 102 yards for a TD, exactly the boost any team needs. Then, after a failed drive by the Seahawks, Ted Ginn Jr. would strike again scoring on a 55 yard punt return for a TD. He did it Aginn. Seriously, couldn't resist that pun. The 49ers would win by the final score of 33-17.
Winning the first game is always a nice way to start a new season. It's also a good way to start a pro coaching career as Jim Harbaugh wins his first NFL game as a head coach. Alex Smith didn't seem horrible going for 15/20 with 125 passing yards a TD scored on the ground. Nothing great from Smith but no INTs. That's what needs to be stressed with Smith and that it no mistakes. Our running attack didn't seem to be there at all as Frank Gore had 59 yards on 22 carries. The whole team didn't get over 100 yards rushing. That's what happens when you don't have a valid aerial attack.
Anyway, we got the win a that's what matters. Looking at the schedule, we might not get much more.
What happened next was unthinkable. Ted Ginn Jr. would return the ensuing kickoff 102 yards for a TD, exactly the boost any team needs. Then, after a failed drive by the Seahawks, Ted Ginn Jr. would strike again scoring on a 55 yard punt return for a TD. He did it Aginn. Seriously, couldn't resist that pun. The 49ers would win by the final score of 33-17.
Winning the first game is always a nice way to start a new season. It's also a good way to start a pro coaching career as Jim Harbaugh wins his first NFL game as a head coach. Alex Smith didn't seem horrible going for 15/20 with 125 passing yards a TD scored on the ground. Nothing great from Smith but no INTs. That's what needs to be stressed with Smith and that it no mistakes. Our running attack didn't seem to be there at all as Frank Gore had 59 yards on 22 carries. The whole team didn't get over 100 yards rushing. That's what happens when you don't have a valid aerial attack.
Anyway, we got the win a that's what matters. Looking at the schedule, we might not get much more.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Tide Wets the Cats, Big House Has its Lights On and More
A mediocre day of college football yesterday. They can't all be good.
I guess the highlight game was the Alabama Crimson Tide going to Happy Valley to face the Penn State Nittany Lions. What does Nittany mean anyway? Joe Paterno wasn't on the sideline as he got to see his team lose to the Tide from above, 27-11. Trent Richardson and Eddie Lacy ran for nearly 200 combined yards of offense for Alabama as they helped pound it down Penn State's throat. Alabama are 2-0 and are likely to remain at #3 in the country.
A big night for the Big House in Michigan. It was the first time that a night game was hosted in Michigan Stadium and that in itself deserves the big game that it got. This back and forth game literally went to last seconds. 3 TDs were scored in the final 2 minutes with the last one coming from Denard Robinson passing to Roy Roundtree for the game winning score with 2 seconds left. Wolverines win at night, 35-31. The Irish are now 0-2 while Michigan is 2-0.
As for some other games, Andrew Luck and the Stanford Cardinal would win against Duke in North Carolina, 44-14. Luck was 20/28, threw for 290, 4 TDs and one INT. South Carolina holds off the Georgia Bulldogs, 45-42. Georgia is now 0-2 while the Gamecocks are 2-0. The Texas Longhorns hold off the BYU Cougars after scoring a TD in the 4th quarter and winning by a score of 17-16. BYU was ahead for most of the game but "most of" doesn't count.
There was a bit of concerning news in the New Mexico State-Minnesota game as Minnesota head coach, Jerry Kill, collapsed along the sideline due to a seizure. He is in stable condition at a hospital. He has had seizures twice before on game day.
Other than the seizure, it seemed rather routine overall in college football.
P.S. The word Nittany seems to be from a Native American Term meaning "Single Mountain." It's also used in the name of the mountain near Penn State. I was curious, alright.
I guess the highlight game was the Alabama Crimson Tide going to Happy Valley to face the Penn State Nittany Lions. What does Nittany mean anyway? Joe Paterno wasn't on the sideline as he got to see his team lose to the Tide from above, 27-11. Trent Richardson and Eddie Lacy ran for nearly 200 combined yards of offense for Alabama as they helped pound it down Penn State's throat. Alabama are 2-0 and are likely to remain at #3 in the country.
A big night for the Big House in Michigan. It was the first time that a night game was hosted in Michigan Stadium and that in itself deserves the big game that it got. This back and forth game literally went to last seconds. 3 TDs were scored in the final 2 minutes with the last one coming from Denard Robinson passing to Roy Roundtree for the game winning score with 2 seconds left. Wolverines win at night, 35-31. The Irish are now 0-2 while Michigan is 2-0.
As for some other games, Andrew Luck and the Stanford Cardinal would win against Duke in North Carolina, 44-14. Luck was 20/28, threw for 290, 4 TDs and one INT. South Carolina holds off the Georgia Bulldogs, 45-42. Georgia is now 0-2 while the Gamecocks are 2-0. The Texas Longhorns hold off the BYU Cougars after scoring a TD in the 4th quarter and winning by a score of 17-16. BYU was ahead for most of the game but "most of" doesn't count.
There was a bit of concerning news in the New Mexico State-Minnesota game as Minnesota head coach, Jerry Kill, collapsed along the sideline due to a seizure. He is in stable condition at a hospital. He has had seizures twice before on game day.
Other than the seizure, it seemed rather routine overall in college football.
P.S. The word Nittany seems to be from a Native American Term meaning "Single Mountain." It's also used in the name of the mountain near Penn State. I was curious, alright.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Packers Win NFL Opener and My Super Bowl Picks
What a first game to watch. The two previous Super Bowl Champions, the Saints and Packers, went at each other tonight at Lambeau Field to start the 2011 NFL Season. Two high powered offenses came in and showed what they got. Defenses did not. A very high scoring game for both sides with the two star QB's as the guys to watch. Drew Brees was 32/49 in the game for 419 Yards and 3 TD passes. Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers was 27/35 for 312 Yards and 3 TD passes.
In the end, some big Green Bay defensive stops made the difference despite all the scoring. Brees and the Saints were down by 8 with just over a minute to go and Brees was able to go down the field for a two shots at the end zone with the 2nd coming because of a questionable pass interference call. The 2nd chance came with no time left and it was handed off to Mark Ingram who was stopped at the line by the Packers. Packers hold back the marching Saints and win the first NFL game of the season, 42-34.
A low scoring game between these two last year but not this time. Both QB's looked good and the Saints showed they are still a high scoring offense and that they'll be hard to beat. The real worry for the Saints at least is the Defense and how they will do all season long. Not a great effort from the Packers' D either but in the battle of two top tier QB's, they held on much better.
The season has started and it's time for my Super Bowl picks. For the NFC, I'm not picking the Packers, even though they looked really good tonight. It's hard to repeat in football. I can't buy into the hype around the Eagles as I'm not convinced they will be the "Dream Team" everyone expects. Rams aren't good enough in the West so I pick the Buccaneers in the NFC South to win the NFC. For the AFC, I'm doing the prediction you never want to make anymore; not the Pats, not the Steelers, but the Chargers. Many have picked them in the past and they have failed to live up to expectations each time but I think they finally come together this year for an AFC title.
So who will win the Super Bowl in Indianapolis? I pick the Buccaneers to win it all. It's a long shot, I realize that, but I have a good feeling about this team and that they will improve enough to get some rings.
In the end, some big Green Bay defensive stops made the difference despite all the scoring. Brees and the Saints were down by 8 with just over a minute to go and Brees was able to go down the field for a two shots at the end zone with the 2nd coming because of a questionable pass interference call. The 2nd chance came with no time left and it was handed off to Mark Ingram who was stopped at the line by the Packers. Packers hold back the marching Saints and win the first NFL game of the season, 42-34.
A low scoring game between these two last year but not this time. Both QB's looked good and the Saints showed they are still a high scoring offense and that they'll be hard to beat. The real worry for the Saints at least is the Defense and how they will do all season long. Not a great effort from the Packers' D either but in the battle of two top tier QB's, they held on much better.
The season has started and it's time for my Super Bowl picks. For the NFC, I'm not picking the Packers, even though they looked really good tonight. It's hard to repeat in football. I can't buy into the hype around the Eagles as I'm not convinced they will be the "Dream Team" everyone expects. Rams aren't good enough in the West so I pick the Buccaneers in the NFC South to win the NFC. For the AFC, I'm doing the prediction you never want to make anymore; not the Pats, not the Steelers, but the Chargers. Many have picked them in the past and they have failed to live up to expectations each time but I think they finally come together this year for an AFC title.
So who will win the Super Bowl in Indianapolis? I pick the Buccaneers to win it all. It's a long shot, I realize that, but I have a good feeling about this team and that they will improve enough to get some rings.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
2011 AFC West Preview: CHARGE!!!
The AFC West last year had the best team in the league for both offense and defense. Yet, this team, the Chargers, did not make the playoffs. San Diego was bummed again their team fell short but this time worse then in recent memory. How do you not make the playoffs with Phillip Rivers dominating the aerial attack? How do you not win with the defense being solid? Special teams were apparently that bad. The Chargers are back, however, with some changes and with some familiar faces. Vincent Jackson is now starting the season unlike last year when he was holing out. That will help their offensive production a lot more.
But what about the division winner last year? The Kansas City Chiefs surprised everyone with Jamaal Charles as RB, Dwayne Bowe as WR, and Matt Cassel as QB. What seemingly was the big part of their success was Charlie Weis as offensive coordinator. With Weis now gone to be part of the Florida Gators coaching staff, this offense will not click as well. KC with have a much tougher time trying to get back to the postseason this year thanks to Weis leaving.
The rest of the division doesn't have much of a shot either. The Broncos are putting their trust into Kyle Orton and if the team, particularly Orton, starts to struggle, fans will be chanting for Tim Tebow. Orton has to win and win early. He can't afford to find his rhythm in the first few weeks. As for the Raiders...
Fine, I'll talk about the Raiders. THEY ARE RUN BY A MAD MAN!!! Al Davis used to know what he was talking about but now he doesn't have a clue on how to run a football team. They went 8-8 last year, the first time they get to .500 since their Super Bowl appearance back in 2003, and the Raiders don't bring back their head coach, Tom Cable. Al Davis has made bad decision after bad decision and until he loses control of that team, the Raiders will be doomed.
Who will win the division? The Chargers. I know I picked them last year and they fell short but they can't go 0-2. Don't look for anyone else in the division to make it to the postseason.
But what about the division winner last year? The Kansas City Chiefs surprised everyone with Jamaal Charles as RB, Dwayne Bowe as WR, and Matt Cassel as QB. What seemingly was the big part of their success was Charlie Weis as offensive coordinator. With Weis now gone to be part of the Florida Gators coaching staff, this offense will not click as well. KC with have a much tougher time trying to get back to the postseason this year thanks to Weis leaving.
The rest of the division doesn't have much of a shot either. The Broncos are putting their trust into Kyle Orton and if the team, particularly Orton, starts to struggle, fans will be chanting for Tim Tebow. Orton has to win and win early. He can't afford to find his rhythm in the first few weeks. As for the Raiders...
Fine, I'll talk about the Raiders. THEY ARE RUN BY A MAD MAN!!! Al Davis used to know what he was talking about but now he doesn't have a clue on how to run a football team. They went 8-8 last year, the first time they get to .500 since their Super Bowl appearance back in 2003, and the Raiders don't bring back their head coach, Tom Cable. Al Davis has made bad decision after bad decision and until he loses control of that team, the Raiders will be doomed.
Who will win the division? The Chargers. I know I picked them last year and they fell short but they can't go 0-2. Don't look for anyone else in the division to make it to the postseason.
Strasburg Returns to the Nationals
Just over a year ago, Stephen Strasburg had Tommy John Surgery and was told he would not be able to play for 12-18 months. The hype around him had died leaving nothing to look forward to if you were a Nats fan. Until now. Stephen Strasburg was making a series of rehab starts dating back a few weeks with speculation that he might start before the season is over. Debate then started on whether or not they were rushing Strasburg back to the mound for no reason. Whatever the right decision was, Strasburg went through the minors with relative ease. He was now being called back to the show.
Last night, Stephen Strasburg made his return to the Washington Nationals and at home. The Phenom came in knowing he was going to get a limited amount of pitches and pitched superbly. 56 pitches in 5 innings pitched for 4 K's, 2 hits allowed, no walks, and no runs allowed. His high 90's fastball was back and he was dominate. The Nationals still lost the game, however, to the Dodgers thanks to the bullpen, 7-3. The outcome of the game itself is not important to DC. What's important is Strasburg and how he did and he did great.
P.S. Don't forget to tune into the Sports Khan Radio Show every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
Last night, Stephen Strasburg made his return to the Washington Nationals and at home. The Phenom came in knowing he was going to get a limited amount of pitches and pitched superbly. 56 pitches in 5 innings pitched for 4 K's, 2 hits allowed, no walks, and no runs allowed. His high 90's fastball was back and he was dominate. The Nationals still lost the game, however, to the Dodgers thanks to the bullpen, 7-3. The outcome of the game itself is not important to DC. What's important is Strasburg and how he did and he did great.
P.S. Don't forget to tune into the Sports Khan Radio Show every Thursday at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
2011 AFC South Preview: What a Pain in the Neck
One man controls the fate of the entire AFC South almost every year and especially this year: Peyton Manning. He's been the most productive QB in the last decade and he has been extremely durable... until now. Manning had neck surgery during the off season and, because of the lockout, he couldn't receive proper medical care from team doctors. That or this neck injury is a real pain. Whatever the case, Peyton Manning has been told by his doctors not to practice. It now seems very doubtful that Manning will start this Sunday's game at Houston.
With Manning's recovery seemingly stalled, I can't in good conscious pick the Colts to win the AFC South this year. That means one of the other three teams have a chance to claim the division. Of those three, the Texans look the most likely. Even though Arian Foster is hurt and might not start Week 1, they still have a Pro Bowl caliber QB in Matt Schaub and a top 5 WR for him to throw to in Andre Johnson. That and some additions to the defensive backfield give the Texans the best shot to win the AFC South this year.
As for the other two teams mentioned, don't count them out. The Jags and the Titans could also claim the division title. Maybe the Titans more or less. They have Matt Hasselbeck as QB and Chris Johnson, who just signed a new deal with the team, as HB. Though, he should be concerned with his hamstring in the first week or so due to him not practicing all month. As for the Jaguars, they might do well but recent seasons suggest that they can't finish the end of the season well. Also, David Garrard will have more pressure to produce wins as the team might change over to Blaine Gabbert depending on how they are doing a couple months in.
To sum up, I pick the Texans as they look the most complete and Peyton Manning might be out for a while. Also when Manning does come back, it might take him a few weeks to find his Pro Bowl rhythm just like last year. He's good but he needs reps just like everyone else.
P.S. I guess Matt Hasselbeck might be under pressure to perform too as to not be replaced by Jake Locker but Hasselbeck has had a better career than Garrard and will have a bigger lease. Plus, he has a better HB behind him.
With Manning's recovery seemingly stalled, I can't in good conscious pick the Colts to win the AFC South this year. That means one of the other three teams have a chance to claim the division. Of those three, the Texans look the most likely. Even though Arian Foster is hurt and might not start Week 1, they still have a Pro Bowl caliber QB in Matt Schaub and a top 5 WR for him to throw to in Andre Johnson. That and some additions to the defensive backfield give the Texans the best shot to win the AFC South this year.
As for the other two teams mentioned, don't count them out. The Jags and the Titans could also claim the division title. Maybe the Titans more or less. They have Matt Hasselbeck as QB and Chris Johnson, who just signed a new deal with the team, as HB. Though, he should be concerned with his hamstring in the first week or so due to him not practicing all month. As for the Jaguars, they might do well but recent seasons suggest that they can't finish the end of the season well. Also, David Garrard will have more pressure to produce wins as the team might change over to Blaine Gabbert depending on how they are doing a couple months in.
To sum up, I pick the Texans as they look the most complete and Peyton Manning might be out for a while. Also when Manning does come back, it might take him a few weeks to find his Pro Bowl rhythm just like last year. He's good but he needs reps just like everyone else.
P.S. I guess Matt Hasselbeck might be under pressure to perform too as to not be replaced by Jake Locker but Hasselbeck has had a better career than Garrard and will have a bigger lease. Plus, he has a better HB behind him.
Monday, September 5, 2011
2011 AFC North Preview: Tough as Steel
The AFC North has been the home of two of the toughest teams in the game; the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens. Both have notoriously hard hitting defenses and a grudge against each other that makes their games perhaps the most fun to watch. Steelers have won the division twice in the last three seasons and got to the Super Bowl each time. Meanwhile, the Ravens have gotten to the playoffs each of the last three seasons with Joe Flacco under center. Flacco, however, has yet to show good enough form that can win a Super Bowl. Big Ben Roethlisberger of the Steelers has. Despite being suspended for the first 4 games of last season, Big Ben still lead the Steelers to a Super Bowl where they lost to the Packers. That and their still strong defense being lead by Troy Polamalu gives this team another shot at a Lombardi trophy.
The bottom two teams from last year still have a lot of work to do to get back to the postseason. The Bengals now have to start from scratch thanks to Carson Palmer retiring because he doesn't want to play for Cincy anymore. Andy Dalton will be the new experiment for the Bengals as they will hope to just win a game this season. The Cleveland Browns, on the other hand, look a bit better. They have Madden cover athlete, Peyton Hillis, to play some smash mouth running as well as developing QB, Colt McCoy, who looks to prove himself in this league.
My pick for the AFC North? It has to be the Steelers. Until Flacco makes that next step, it will be the Steelers winning the division again. The Ravens may have had the same record as the Steelers last season but their defensive stars keep getting older and eventually they will break. I still see a Wild Card spot for them, though.
The bottom two teams from last year still have a lot of work to do to get back to the postseason. The Bengals now have to start from scratch thanks to Carson Palmer retiring because he doesn't want to play for Cincy anymore. Andy Dalton will be the new experiment for the Bengals as they will hope to just win a game this season. The Cleveland Browns, on the other hand, look a bit better. They have Madden cover athlete, Peyton Hillis, to play some smash mouth running as well as developing QB, Colt McCoy, who looks to prove himself in this league.
My pick for the AFC North? It has to be the Steelers. Until Flacco makes that next step, it will be the Steelers winning the division again. The Ravens may have had the same record as the Steelers last season but their defensive stars keep getting older and eventually they will break. I still see a Wild Card spot for them, though.
Weird Instant Replay Call
Everyone who reads this blog knows that I'm in favor of broader instant replay rules in baseball and quite frankly any sport where mistakes are constantly made. The only time where umps can look at instant replay is when it's a borderline home run. Or is it?
In the Phillies-Marlins game in Miami, a questionable instant replay call has been brought to the for front of the game. In the top of the 6th, there was a man on first with no outs and Hunter Pence was up at bat. He hit a deep one to RF where Bryan Petersen was attempting to catch the ball at the wall when some fans dressed in Phillies gear interfered with the ball which lead to a double with two guys in scoring position. Anyway, both managers came out to argue, one for interference and the other for a home run (apparently).
So the umps looked at it the instant replay and determined it was fan interference. Charlie Manuel, manager of the Phillies, was furious that the play was reviewed and was thrown out. He later said he didn't want it reviewed and that a defensive play shouldn't be reviewed. The Crew Chief, Joe West, justified the decision to look at the play because the Phillies argued it was a home run. West also said "Once we look at the replay, we have to use all the evidence that replay gives us." The Phillies wouldn't score in that inning and played the rest of the game in protest. They would lose in the 14th inning thanks to 4 straight walks, 5-4.
Alright, a weird defining moment for MLB. Seeing how this worked out and that there was a 12 minute delay thanks to all the arguing and looking at the play itself, I wonder if it will affect MLB view on instant replay at all. Probably not. They've had a lot of ammo thrown at them on the side of instant replay and haven't flinched that much. The only kind of play that's allowed to be reviewed is a home run and I swear that's just for the "sacredness" of the home runs in baseball. I hope MLB will adjust the rules to allow for better reviews but it's nice to see the current rule being implied to correct some other error.
In the Phillies-Marlins game in Miami, a questionable instant replay call has been brought to the for front of the game. In the top of the 6th, there was a man on first with no outs and Hunter Pence was up at bat. He hit a deep one to RF where Bryan Petersen was attempting to catch the ball at the wall when some fans dressed in Phillies gear interfered with the ball which lead to a double with two guys in scoring position. Anyway, both managers came out to argue, one for interference and the other for a home run (apparently).
So the umps looked at it the instant replay and determined it was fan interference. Charlie Manuel, manager of the Phillies, was furious that the play was reviewed and was thrown out. He later said he didn't want it reviewed and that a defensive play shouldn't be reviewed. The Crew Chief, Joe West, justified the decision to look at the play because the Phillies argued it was a home run. West also said "Once we look at the replay, we have to use all the evidence that replay gives us." The Phillies wouldn't score in that inning and played the rest of the game in protest. They would lose in the 14th inning thanks to 4 straight walks, 5-4.
Alright, a weird defining moment for MLB. Seeing how this worked out and that there was a 12 minute delay thanks to all the arguing and looking at the play itself, I wonder if it will affect MLB view on instant replay at all. Probably not. They've had a lot of ammo thrown at them on the side of instant replay and haven't flinched that much. The only kind of play that's allowed to be reviewed is a home run and I swear that's just for the "sacredness" of the home runs in baseball. I hope MLB will adjust the rules to allow for better reviews but it's nice to see the current rule being implied to correct some other error.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
2011 AFC East Preview: It's Time for Take Off
The AFC East has been Jets-Patriots for the last few years now and while the Pats have seemingly dominated the regular season as of late, the Jets have been the team to get the furthest in the playoffs in the last two seasons getting to the AFC Title game twice and under the developing Mark Sanchez. The Pats seemed a bit reloaded, though, this year. They just gotten Albert Haynesworth and Chad Ochocinco as some notable additions. Not even one full year remove from the departure of the ultimate diva WR, Tom Brady gets another outspoken WR to throw to.
As for the Jets, this will be Mark Sanchez's third year in the league and he has done pretty good for the first two just looking at how far the team has gotten with him under center. The Jets have a new notable WR as well in Plaxico Burress who will look to prove he is still great player in the NFL. Santonio Holmes is also still there as well as Rex Ryan's defense highlighted by Darrelle Revis. As to how far the Jets will go this year, that will depend on how much Mark Sanchez has improved. If he can become just one of the top 10 QB's in the league, this team has a legitimate shot at a Super Bowl.
The rest of the division does not. The Miami Dolphins barely have enough confidence in Tony Sparano and Chad Henne to just show up. How does management expect them to win a division? Miami is likely going to take a step back this year. I honestly expect the Bills to take third place in the AFC East and even flirt with a .500 record. Even though they were the worst in the division last season, they played every game tough and seemed like they could've actually gotten to .500 with a little bit of luck.
Who will win the AFC East? Again, it has to go back to how much Sanchez has improved. If he's only grown a little, look for the same results. If he breaks through to the next level, look to the Jets to become the division champs. I expect the later to happen and the Jets to overcome the Pats during the regular season and postseason. Don't worry, New England. You're still one of my Wild Card picks.
P.S. The Sports Khan Radio Show has returned and man it felt good to be back on the air (so to speak). Be sure to tune in to the show every Thursday at 4 PM this Fall on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
As for the Jets, this will be Mark Sanchez's third year in the league and he has done pretty good for the first two just looking at how far the team has gotten with him under center. The Jets have a new notable WR as well in Plaxico Burress who will look to prove he is still great player in the NFL. Santonio Holmes is also still there as well as Rex Ryan's defense highlighted by Darrelle Revis. As to how far the Jets will go this year, that will depend on how much Mark Sanchez has improved. If he can become just one of the top 10 QB's in the league, this team has a legitimate shot at a Super Bowl.
The rest of the division does not. The Miami Dolphins barely have enough confidence in Tony Sparano and Chad Henne to just show up. How does management expect them to win a division? Miami is likely going to take a step back this year. I honestly expect the Bills to take third place in the AFC East and even flirt with a .500 record. Even though they were the worst in the division last season, they played every game tough and seemed like they could've actually gotten to .500 with a little bit of luck.
Who will win the AFC East? Again, it has to go back to how much Sanchez has improved. If he's only grown a little, look for the same results. If he breaks through to the next level, look to the Jets to become the division champs. I expect the later to happen and the Jets to overcome the Pats during the regular season and postseason. Don't worry, New England. You're still one of my Wild Card picks.
P.S. The Sports Khan Radio Show has returned and man it felt good to be back on the air (so to speak). Be sure to tune in to the show every Thursday at 4 PM this Fall on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
Texas and Oklahoma: ABANDON SHIP!!!
More teams making conference moves is being discussed. Yes, it's a couple of teams in the Big 12. It's Texas and Oklahoma? Apparently the two schools have reached out to the Pac-12 about joining their conference seeing as Texas A&M is leaving the Big 12 and taking the conference out with it. There is talk of forming the Pac-16 with Oklahoma State and Texas Tech coming along with Texas and Oklahoma. The Pac-12 acknowledged that schools have reached out to them but also said they weren't seeking expansion partners.
I can't believe there is actually a chance of a Super Conference. What a story. There has been so much negative news for the Big 12 in the last year and this sounds like the final nail in the coffin for them. You know they're seeing the light with Texas and Oklahoma trying to get out. The major hiccup in this move might be Texas' TV Network as the Pac-12 doesn't seem to like the idea of one of their own schools having a separate network. Maybe Texas will get rid of their network to join the conference. Maybe the Pac-12 will let them keep it for a price. Who can say what will happen?
Perhaps the only thing that can made for certain is that the Big 12 is going down and what brought it down? Money. It's always about the money, even in a amateur sport.
P.S. I'd stop bashing College Football but they can't hear through their advertisers anyway.
I can't believe there is actually a chance of a Super Conference. What a story. There has been so much negative news for the Big 12 in the last year and this sounds like the final nail in the coffin for them. You know they're seeing the light with Texas and Oklahoma trying to get out. The major hiccup in this move might be Texas' TV Network as the Pac-12 doesn't seem to like the idea of one of their own schools having a separate network. Maybe Texas will get rid of their network to join the conference. Maybe the Pac-12 will let them keep it for a price. Who can say what will happen?
Perhaps the only thing that can made for certain is that the Big 12 is going down and what brought it down? Money. It's always about the money, even in a amateur sport.
P.S. I'd stop bashing College Football but they can't hear through their advertisers anyway.
LSU Defeats Oregon, BSU Takes Down a SEC Team, Auburn Survives Against Utah State and More
A fine opening weekend in College Football as we have already eliminated some teams from National Title contention. The Oregon Ducks went into Cowboys Stadium to take on the LSU Tigers. Why Cowboys stadium hosts a game in which neither team is even from within the state: it's money, of course. It was a tough challenge for both teams to start a season, especially with LSU suspending a few players, including QB Jordan Jefferson, due to a outside incident. LSU didn't seem to need them, however. Four costly turnovers costed the Ducks with LSU running the ball down their throats. The two backs of Michael Ford and Spencer Ware combined for nearly 200 yards and 3 Rushing TDs. In the end, LSU won 40-27.
As for another prime time game featuring another SEC team, the Georgia Bulldogs hosted the Boise State Broncos in the Georgia Dome (also about money... and Chikin). The Broncos have impressed the country in recent years by facing quality opponents in their season openers and this year was no different. Kellen Moore lead the Broncos very well in this game going 28/34 for 261 passing yards, 3 TDs, and 1 INT. Broncos stamp out another good opponent, 35-21.
A couple of games were influenced by weather yesterday. One was USF vs. Notre Dame and they had endure two weather delays thanks to thunder. The Fighting Irish had high hopes for this season but they seemed to be dashed early on. They lose to the USF Bulls, 23-20. The other game affected by weather was Western Michigan vs. Michigan. However, this one would not see the 4th quarter. It was called in the third and given to Michigan who was winning 34-10 at the time. What a way for Brady Hoke to begin his Wolverine days.
As for some other games, Oklahoma easily gets by Tulsa, 47-14. Looks like the Sooners are proving they belong at the #1 spot. The Alabama Crimson Tide start their BCS Title hopes off right by defeating Kent, 48-7. Alabama looks ready to squash any in their way in the SEC. Florida State shuts down Louisiana-Monroe, 34-0. The Seminoles journey back to premier status starts off right. Auburn Barely survives their first game of the season as they squeak by Utah State, 42-38. Looks like the Auburn Tigers are not going to repeat as National Champs if they can barely get by a minor team from the WAC. Then back on Thursday, Baylor upsets last year's BCS Buster, TCU, defeating them thanks to a late game field goal by Aaron Jones, 50-48. Looks like the Horned Frogs BCS hopes are over before week two.
A nice showing for College Football with the headlines being the Oregon Ducks already out of National Title race. What a flawed system we have.
As for another prime time game featuring another SEC team, the Georgia Bulldogs hosted the Boise State Broncos in the Georgia Dome (also about money... and Chikin). The Broncos have impressed the country in recent years by facing quality opponents in their season openers and this year was no different. Kellen Moore lead the Broncos very well in this game going 28/34 for 261 passing yards, 3 TDs, and 1 INT. Broncos stamp out another good opponent, 35-21.
A couple of games were influenced by weather yesterday. One was USF vs. Notre Dame and they had endure two weather delays thanks to thunder. The Fighting Irish had high hopes for this season but they seemed to be dashed early on. They lose to the USF Bulls, 23-20. The other game affected by weather was Western Michigan vs. Michigan. However, this one would not see the 4th quarter. It was called in the third and given to Michigan who was winning 34-10 at the time. What a way for Brady Hoke to begin his Wolverine days.
As for some other games, Oklahoma easily gets by Tulsa, 47-14. Looks like the Sooners are proving they belong at the #1 spot. The Alabama Crimson Tide start their BCS Title hopes off right by defeating Kent, 48-7. Alabama looks ready to squash any in their way in the SEC. Florida State shuts down Louisiana-Monroe, 34-0. The Seminoles journey back to premier status starts off right. Auburn Barely survives their first game of the season as they squeak by Utah State, 42-38. Looks like the Auburn Tigers are not going to repeat as National Champs if they can barely get by a minor team from the WAC. Then back on Thursday, Baylor upsets last year's BCS Buster, TCU, defeating them thanks to a late game field goal by Aaron Jones, 50-48. Looks like the Horned Frogs BCS hopes are over before week two.
A nice showing for College Football with the headlines being the Oregon Ducks already out of National Title race. What a flawed system we have.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
2011 NFC East Preview: Let the Eagles Soar
The NFC East seems like on the hardest ones to call. The obvious favorite going into the season seems to be the Philadelphia Eagles. They added Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Nnamdi Asomugha to a secondary that already had Asante Samuel. They also have Michael Vick as their top QB with solid targets to throw to in Jeremy Maclin, Steve Smith, and DeSean Jackson. I hesitate to make this team my division favorite because partly of the hype and how they've looked during the preseason. Now the preseason doesn't really mean a thing but I must say that sometimes bringing in new talent on this level doesn't always work out. Dan Snyder, owner of the Redskins, can tell you that.
As for another possible contender for the NFC East crown, look to the Giants and the Cowboys. The Giants late season collapse lead to them missing the postseason but they are still contenders just looking at their offensive backfield alone. Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs? Look out defense. The Cowboys also have a chance with Tony Romo leading them. Romo is back and healthy with a new Head Coach in Jason Garrett to guide him. Also, with Rob Ryan talking up the defense, there's a chance this team will be able to shut down some top offenses around the league.
The only team not really in the hunt in this division is the Washington Redskins. You can tell just looking at the QB race between Rex Grossman and John Beck. If one starts to falter, Mike Shanahan might just put in the other. No solid QB to start means no chance in the NFL. Their only shot I can see is if John Beck suddenly becomes a star in no time. And yes, I am saying that Rex Grossman's time to shine has come and gone.
Looking at it all, I will pick the Eagles to win the NFC East with no other team in the division making the playoffs. I'm not saying this with the best amount of certainty but in this division, how can anyone?
P.S. Here's something I can say with certainty: Eli Manning is not a top level QB.
As for another possible contender for the NFC East crown, look to the Giants and the Cowboys. The Giants late season collapse lead to them missing the postseason but they are still contenders just looking at their offensive backfield alone. Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs? Look out defense. The Cowboys also have a chance with Tony Romo leading them. Romo is back and healthy with a new Head Coach in Jason Garrett to guide him. Also, with Rob Ryan talking up the defense, there's a chance this team will be able to shut down some top offenses around the league.
The only team not really in the hunt in this division is the Washington Redskins. You can tell just looking at the QB race between Rex Grossman and John Beck. If one starts to falter, Mike Shanahan might just put in the other. No solid QB to start means no chance in the NFL. Their only shot I can see is if John Beck suddenly becomes a star in no time. And yes, I am saying that Rex Grossman's time to shine has come and gone.
Looking at it all, I will pick the Eagles to win the NFC East with no other team in the division making the playoffs. I'm not saying this with the best amount of certainty but in this division, how can anyone?
P.S. Here's something I can say with certainty: Eli Manning is not a top level QB.
Friday, September 2, 2011
2011 NFC North Preview: Hail to the Cheese
The NFC North, now that's a division to look at. The two teams in last year's NFC Conference Title game were from this division with one of them winning the Super Bowl soon afterword. I'm talking about the Green Bay Packers who somehow managed a Super Bowl victory despite a chunk of their roster on Injured Reserve. A lot of their guys are coming back (Ryan Grant among them) and with Aaron Rodgers leading them, how can you not pick the Packers to at least win the NFC North.
As for the other team in that NFC Title game, the Bears still look pretty good. Last year was definitely an improvement for them and there is no reason (other than the Packers) why they couldn't go out there and contend for another division title. Jay Cutler still has a cannon for an arm along with an elite defense. However, it might get a bit less qualified as Lance Briggs apparently wants out of Chicago. Also you have to count the fact that Greg Olson is no longer with the team because Mike Martz hates TE's.
As for the rest of the division, the Vikings have set themselves up to be a possible contender. They just got Donovan McNabb as their QB and still have one of the best backs in the game in Adrian Peterson. Although, I wonder how well they will do without Sidney Rice helping the aerial attack. I guess McNabb will have to settle for Percy Harvin as a target.
As for the Lions, they're the Dark Horse of the NFC in my opinion. They have been bad for so long that it's hard even considering them. If Matthew Stafford stays healthy and that defensive line is as superb as everyone thinks they will be, then watch out for the Lions to make some noise.
Who will win the unforgiving NFC North Division? Like I said, the Packers will win the north. I would also look for a Wild Card team to come out of this division. My pick for that is the Bears. I could see the other two teams getting the Wild Card instead but McNabb has to show he's still got it for the Vikings and Stafford has to show he can be great and remain healthy for Lions.
As for the other team in that NFC Title game, the Bears still look pretty good. Last year was definitely an improvement for them and there is no reason (other than the Packers) why they couldn't go out there and contend for another division title. Jay Cutler still has a cannon for an arm along with an elite defense. However, it might get a bit less qualified as Lance Briggs apparently wants out of Chicago. Also you have to count the fact that Greg Olson is no longer with the team because Mike Martz hates TE's.
As for the rest of the division, the Vikings have set themselves up to be a possible contender. They just got Donovan McNabb as their QB and still have one of the best backs in the game in Adrian Peterson. Although, I wonder how well they will do without Sidney Rice helping the aerial attack. I guess McNabb will have to settle for Percy Harvin as a target.
As for the Lions, they're the Dark Horse of the NFC in my opinion. They have been bad for so long that it's hard even considering them. If Matthew Stafford stays healthy and that defensive line is as superb as everyone thinks they will be, then watch out for the Lions to make some noise.
Who will win the unforgiving NFC North Division? Like I said, the Packers will win the north. I would also look for a Wild Card team to come out of this division. My pick for that is the Bears. I could see the other two teams getting the Wild Card instead but McNabb has to show he's still got it for the Vikings and Stafford has to show he can be great and remain healthy for Lions.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
2011 NFC South Preview: A Bucs Life For Me
The next NFL division to look at is the NFC South. Last year, the Falcons controlled this division and went 13-3 leading not only the south, but the entire NFC. They were then promptly eliminated by the soon to be Super Bowl Champions, the Packers. But they are back and still look pretty good. However, they might have some trouble repeating as division champions. Though they missed the playoffs last year, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers went 10-6 and their QB, Josh Freeman, looked good. Little attention went to the Bucs but the way they are set up they might just force attention upon themselves.
As for the other two teams, the Saints still have a realistic shot at the division. No Reggie Bush makes things harder for them but with Drew Brees leading the way they have a chance. As for the Panthers, their big highlight will be how Cam Newton will do this season. They don't look as good as anyone else and with a rookie leading their team, it will not be a pretty year for Carolina. This division often has a lot of turnover but it won't happen for the Panthers this year.
As for my pick, I do see a new division champion with the Buccaneers. Cheer up, Atlanta, I still think you'll make the playoffs. Just as a Wild Card team. Sorry to New Orleans.
P.S. Be sure to catch the Fall Premiere of the Sports Khan Radio Show, today at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
As for the other two teams, the Saints still have a realistic shot at the division. No Reggie Bush makes things harder for them but with Drew Brees leading the way they have a chance. As for the Panthers, their big highlight will be how Cam Newton will do this season. They don't look as good as anyone else and with a rookie leading their team, it will not be a pretty year for Carolina. This division often has a lot of turnover but it won't happen for the Panthers this year.
As for my pick, I do see a new division champion with the Buccaneers. Cheer up, Atlanta, I still think you'll make the playoffs. Just as a Wild Card team. Sorry to New Orleans.
P.S. Be sure to catch the Fall Premiere of the Sports Khan Radio Show, today at 4 PM on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.
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