Here are the top 25 picks for this week.
1. Florida vs. Georgia- Florida
2. Alabama- Week off
3. Texas vs. OK ST- Texas
4. Iowa vs. Indiana- Iowa
5. USC vs. Oregon- Oregon
6. TCU vs. UNLV- TCU
7. Boise St. vs. San Jose St- Boise St
8. Cincinnati vs. Syracuse- Cincinnati
9. LSU vs. Tulane- LSU
10. Oregon vs. USC- Oregon
11. Georgia Tech vs. Vanderbilt- Georgia Tech
12. Penn St. vs. Northwestern- Penn St.
13. Virgina Tech. vs. UNC- UNC
14. OK ST. vs. Texas- Texas
15. Pitt- Week Off
16. Utah vs. Wyoming- Utah
17. Ohio St. vs. New Mexico St.- Ohio St.
18. Houston vs. Southern Miss- Houston
19. Miami (FL) vs. Wake Forest- Miami (FL)
20. Arizona- Week Off
21. West Virgina vs. South Florida- South Florida
22. South Carolina vs. Tennessee- South Carolina
23. Notre Dame vs. Washington St.- Notre Dame
24. Cal vs. Arizona St.- Cal
25. Mississippi vs. Auburn- Ole Miss
Upset Alert- USC vs. Oregon. Oregon is very hot and at home this week, so look for them to upset the Trojans.
Game of the Week- USC vs. Oregon.
Coach Tom
October 31, 2009
October 28, 2009
TBG's NBA Preview
The NBA is here! Back to long nights watching West Coast ball on TNT and ESPN. First off, the Bulls are back. Now a mix of Baby and Vet Bulls I expect them to improve on last year's run and make it to the second round. They are still a couple years from contender status but look for Derrick Rose and Tyrus Thomas to leave Bulls fans thinking big after this season. Also look for both rooks, James Johnson and Taj Gibson, to contribute.
In other news my second favorite squad, and favorite player, are back! People are going to start taking the Oklahoma City Thunder seriously this year. With an outstanding young core of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, James Harden and Jeff Green the Thunder are a couple years of experience and a couple vet role players away from dynasty contention. KD could easily win the scoring title this year if he wanted to but look for him to score slightly less than last year as he improves his Assist/Turnover ratio and rebounding. This guy could be on LeBron status in not too long.
The Celtics and Spurs both sport ridiculous starting 5's. And with veteran leadership dripping from both rosters I expect them to meet for the NBA championship. That's right. No Magic. No Lakers.
I believe a healthy Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker can outperform Kobe and Derek Fisher. Tim Duncan is a Hall of Famer to be and Richard Jefferson will fit in perfectly. Also look for DeJuan Blair to contribute off the bench. If you can't tell I am big on the Spurs this year and have them as my champion.
Rookie of the Year: Steph Curry- The Davidson scoring machine will love Nellyball. Look for him to shoot early and often and capture voter's hearts with occasional scoring outbursts.
MVP: Dwayne Wade- In a year of stacked teams a man pulling his team into the playoffs on his own will hold the MVP crown. His numbers were comparable to LeBron's last year and he will play on the same level again.
Most Improved Player: Tyrus Thomas- The Chicago Bull improved drastically second half last season and will let it be known throughout the league that he will be a force for years.
TBG
In other news my second favorite squad, and favorite player, are back! People are going to start taking the Oklahoma City Thunder seriously this year. With an outstanding young core of Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, James Harden and Jeff Green the Thunder are a couple years of experience and a couple vet role players away from dynasty contention. KD could easily win the scoring title this year if he wanted to but look for him to score slightly less than last year as he improves his Assist/Turnover ratio and rebounding. This guy could be on LeBron status in not too long.
The Celtics and Spurs both sport ridiculous starting 5's. And with veteran leadership dripping from both rosters I expect them to meet for the NBA championship. That's right. No Magic. No Lakers.
I believe a healthy Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker can outperform Kobe and Derek Fisher. Tim Duncan is a Hall of Famer to be and Richard Jefferson will fit in perfectly. Also look for DeJuan Blair to contribute off the bench. If you can't tell I am big on the Spurs this year and have them as my champion.
Rookie of the Year: Steph Curry- The Davidson scoring machine will love Nellyball. Look for him to shoot early and often and capture voter's hearts with occasional scoring outbursts.
MVP: Dwayne Wade- In a year of stacked teams a man pulling his team into the playoffs on his own will hold the MVP crown. His numbers were comparable to LeBron's last year and he will play on the same level again.
Most Improved Player: Tyrus Thomas- The Chicago Bull improved drastically second half last season and will let it be known throughout the league that he will be a force for years.
TBG
October 27, 2009
NBA Preview
It's finally here, the 2009-10 NBA season. With so many teams waiting for the plethora of top name free agents to be on the market next year, this year should be very interesting to watch. Lots of young players will get a shot to get big minutes this year. Here is the breakdown of the season to me.
Eastern Conference
Southeast
Atlanta Hawks- Lots of talent on the team and finally getting back to their winning ways last season the hawks look to go deeper into the playoffs this year. They have great guard play but do not have the big men to get it done. They'll finish 2nd in the Southeast division behind the Orlando Magic.
Charlotte Bobcats- Larry Brown always has his teams play hard and competitive, but not much to say about this team. They'll finish last in the Southeast conference and no post season for the Cats this year.
Miami Heat- Dwayne Wade is going to have another great year, but will anyone else on his team help him. With the lack of talented teams in the east i think the Heat will make one of the last slots for the playoffs and finish 4th in the Southeast
Orlando Magic- I really think that getting rid of Turkoglu is going to hurt the Magic but they still have great players and will finish 1st in the Southeast and will make a run in the playoffs. I still think they will fall short this year behind the powerful Cav's and Ceiltics.
Washington Wizards- In my eyes this team is the wild card team in the East. If Arenas is healthy all year and lives up to his predictions on the year then this team could be very powerful. I think they'll finish 3rd in the division and could surprise people in the playoffs.
Atlantic
Boston- With the addition of Rasheed Wallace the Boston Celtics look like they could win it all this year. They are going to finish first in the Atlantic division and could easily make it to the finials if all stay healthy.
New Jersey Nets- If anyone could use Coach Tom and TBG's advice to have the 12th man on the team be a lucky fan its this team. If they thought it was hard to sell tickets last year what are they to do without the big name of Vince Carter. They will finish last in the division and at the bottom of the East.
New York Knicks- This year really means nothing to the Knicks GM because the lottery of Lebron James is not until next year. With the Knicks waiting until next year look for the Knicks to finish 4th in the Atlantic and miss the playoffs.
Philadelphia 76ers- Very weak division has the 76ers finishing 3rd in the division but they too will miss the playoffs this year.
Toronto Raptors- Chris Bosh will have a big year since this is his last year of his contract with the Raptors and will help the Raptors finish 2nd in the Division. They are good enough to make the playoffs and get one of the bottom spots in the East.
Central
Chicago Bulls- Lots of young talent on this team. Derrick Rose will only get better this season and that is why they are going to finish 2nd in the division. Rose makes everyone on the team better and look For Tyrus Thomas to have a huge year and breakout this season. The Bulls are a very interesting team and could surprise many people.
Cleveland Cavaliers- Could this finally be the year the Lebron wins a championship. For Cleveland's sake hopefully they do beca0use if it doesn't happen for Lebron in Cleveland this year, it may never happen. They have brought in Shaq to help get to that point. The Cavs look strong this year and will finish 1st in the Central and in the East.
Detroit Pistons- Detroit is no longer the strong defensive team they once were. With the addition of Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva their focus has shifted to the offense and will take them out of the playoffs this year. They'll finish 3rd in the Central
Indiana Pacers- Strengthening their defense was the Pacers goal this summer and I believe this could get them close to the playoffs. They still aren't strong enough offensively and will end up short this year. They will finish 4th in the Division
Milwaukee Bucks- They are another team waiting for next year. This summer they got rid of their number 2 and 4 scorers and the only star left is Michael Redd. This is his final year of his contract so look for him to have a big year, but not the Bucks.
Western Conference
Southwest
Dallas Mavericks- Great move to get Shawn Marion and their frontline is very impressive. The one thing stopping this team from the finals is a shooting guard. They are powerful and will finish 2nd in a strong division.
Houston Rockets- Their two stars, Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady being out of the line up for much of the season the Rockets are going to struggle in the West. No playoffs for them this year and will finish 4th in the division
Memphis Grizzlies- The addition of A.I. could do more hurt then help. They have young talent and A.I.'s shoot first personality could stunt the growth of many of these players. Very young and no defense from this team look for them to finish 5th in the Division.
New Orleans Hornets- CP3 will get this team to playoffs because of his ability to run the point but does he have enough help around him? The point guard is the most important position in the league and if anyone get make average players look great around him its CP3. They will finish 3rd in the division.
San Antonio Spurs- This team could be the sleeper in the west if you can believe that any team with Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili could be a sleeper. So many people think the Lakers will win easy, but when healthy I think this team has what it takes to win. The key to the Spurs is health. The will finish 1st in the division.
Northwest
Denver Nuggets- Carmelo Anthony got his team to the finals last season but the lack of moves from this team during the summer is going to hurt them this year. They'll make it to the playoffs but not back to the Western Conference Finals. They will finish 2nd in the division.
Minnesota Timberwolves- With their number one pick Rubio choosing to stay overseas and their lack of athleticism will put the Timberwolves at the bottom of the West. They will finish 5th in the division.
Oklahoma City Thunder- So this is TBG's and CT's surprise pick of the year. The Thunder will make the playoffs and when ESPN starts talking about it we wrote it here first. they will finish 3rd in the divison.
Portland Trailblazers- Its time for the Trailblazers to take the next step in the West. They will finish 1st in the division and make a run in the playoffs but just fall a bit short.
Utah Jazz- Someone in this division has to place 4th and this is the team to do it. I don't think they will give Boozer the money he wants and could move him during the season. They could make the playoffs because of the coach.
Pacific
Golden State Warriors- What happened to the days of fast pace ball and Davis having the greatest dunk I've ever seen in the playoffs? This team has fallen apart and finish 4th in the division only because the Kings are in the same divison.
Los Angeles Clippers- With Griffin hurt already and out for 6-8 weeks the Clippers season has gotten off to another Clippers start. This team is always struck by the injury bug and will finish 3rd in the division.
Los Angeles Lakers- Repeat? With the addition of Ron Artest to the lineup this team is my favorite to win the championship this year. They will finish 1st in the division and cause Lebron to leave Cleveland.
Phoenix Suns- They go back to their fast pace ball this year which will help them to get back to where they were in the past and will finish 2nd in the division. They will make the playoffs and could upset someone once there.
Sacramento Kings- Far from their days of being cheated out of a Finals appearance by the refs in a game 7 verse the Lakers, the Kings will need all the help they can get this year. They will finish last in the division and last in the league. They too could use TBG's and CT's method of the 12th man because they don't have 8 good players let alone 12.
MVP- Lebron James
ROY- Johnny Flynn
Most Improved- Tyrus Thomas
Defensive POY- Ron Artest
Finals Cav's vs. Lakers
Champion- Lakers
Coach Tom
Eastern Conference
Southeast
Atlanta Hawks- Lots of talent on the team and finally getting back to their winning ways last season the hawks look to go deeper into the playoffs this year. They have great guard play but do not have the big men to get it done. They'll finish 2nd in the Southeast division behind the Orlando Magic.
Charlotte Bobcats- Larry Brown always has his teams play hard and competitive, but not much to say about this team. They'll finish last in the Southeast conference and no post season for the Cats this year.
Miami Heat- Dwayne Wade is going to have another great year, but will anyone else on his team help him. With the lack of talented teams in the east i think the Heat will make one of the last slots for the playoffs and finish 4th in the Southeast
Orlando Magic- I really think that getting rid of Turkoglu is going to hurt the Magic but they still have great players and will finish 1st in the Southeast and will make a run in the playoffs. I still think they will fall short this year behind the powerful Cav's and Ceiltics.
Washington Wizards- In my eyes this team is the wild card team in the East. If Arenas is healthy all year and lives up to his predictions on the year then this team could be very powerful. I think they'll finish 3rd in the division and could surprise people in the playoffs.
Atlantic
Boston- With the addition of Rasheed Wallace the Boston Celtics look like they could win it all this year. They are going to finish first in the Atlantic division and could easily make it to the finials if all stay healthy.
New Jersey Nets- If anyone could use Coach Tom and TBG's advice to have the 12th man on the team be a lucky fan its this team. If they thought it was hard to sell tickets last year what are they to do without the big name of Vince Carter. They will finish last in the division and at the bottom of the East.
New York Knicks- This year really means nothing to the Knicks GM because the lottery of Lebron James is not until next year. With the Knicks waiting until next year look for the Knicks to finish 4th in the Atlantic and miss the playoffs.
Philadelphia 76ers- Very weak division has the 76ers finishing 3rd in the division but they too will miss the playoffs this year.
Toronto Raptors- Chris Bosh will have a big year since this is his last year of his contract with the Raptors and will help the Raptors finish 2nd in the Division. They are good enough to make the playoffs and get one of the bottom spots in the East.
Central
Chicago Bulls- Lots of young talent on this team. Derrick Rose will only get better this season and that is why they are going to finish 2nd in the division. Rose makes everyone on the team better and look For Tyrus Thomas to have a huge year and breakout this season. The Bulls are a very interesting team and could surprise many people.
Cleveland Cavaliers- Could this finally be the year the Lebron wins a championship. For Cleveland's sake hopefully they do beca0use if it doesn't happen for Lebron in Cleveland this year, it may never happen. They have brought in Shaq to help get to that point. The Cavs look strong this year and will finish 1st in the Central and in the East.
Detroit Pistons- Detroit is no longer the strong defensive team they once were. With the addition of Ben Gordon and Charlie Villanueva their focus has shifted to the offense and will take them out of the playoffs this year. They'll finish 3rd in the Central
Indiana Pacers- Strengthening their defense was the Pacers goal this summer and I believe this could get them close to the playoffs. They still aren't strong enough offensively and will end up short this year. They will finish 4th in the Division
Milwaukee Bucks- They are another team waiting for next year. This summer they got rid of their number 2 and 4 scorers and the only star left is Michael Redd. This is his final year of his contract so look for him to have a big year, but not the Bucks.
Western Conference
Southwest
Dallas Mavericks- Great move to get Shawn Marion and their frontline is very impressive. The one thing stopping this team from the finals is a shooting guard. They are powerful and will finish 2nd in a strong division.
Houston Rockets- Their two stars, Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady being out of the line up for much of the season the Rockets are going to struggle in the West. No playoffs for them this year and will finish 4th in the division
Memphis Grizzlies- The addition of A.I. could do more hurt then help. They have young talent and A.I.'s shoot first personality could stunt the growth of many of these players. Very young and no defense from this team look for them to finish 5th in the Division.
New Orleans Hornets- CP3 will get this team to playoffs because of his ability to run the point but does he have enough help around him? The point guard is the most important position in the league and if anyone get make average players look great around him its CP3. They will finish 3rd in the division.
San Antonio Spurs- This team could be the sleeper in the west if you can believe that any team with Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili could be a sleeper. So many people think the Lakers will win easy, but when healthy I think this team has what it takes to win. The key to the Spurs is health. The will finish 1st in the division.
Northwest
Denver Nuggets- Carmelo Anthony got his team to the finals last season but the lack of moves from this team during the summer is going to hurt them this year. They'll make it to the playoffs but not back to the Western Conference Finals. They will finish 2nd in the division.
Minnesota Timberwolves- With their number one pick Rubio choosing to stay overseas and their lack of athleticism will put the Timberwolves at the bottom of the West. They will finish 5th in the division.
Oklahoma City Thunder- So this is TBG's and CT's surprise pick of the year. The Thunder will make the playoffs and when ESPN starts talking about it we wrote it here first. they will finish 3rd in the divison.
Portland Trailblazers- Its time for the Trailblazers to take the next step in the West. They will finish 1st in the division and make a run in the playoffs but just fall a bit short.
Utah Jazz- Someone in this division has to place 4th and this is the team to do it. I don't think they will give Boozer the money he wants and could move him during the season. They could make the playoffs because of the coach.
Pacific
Golden State Warriors- What happened to the days of fast pace ball and Davis having the greatest dunk I've ever seen in the playoffs? This team has fallen apart and finish 4th in the division only because the Kings are in the same divison.
Los Angeles Clippers- With Griffin hurt already and out for 6-8 weeks the Clippers season has gotten off to another Clippers start. This team is always struck by the injury bug and will finish 3rd in the division.
Los Angeles Lakers- Repeat? With the addition of Ron Artest to the lineup this team is my favorite to win the championship this year. They will finish 1st in the division and cause Lebron to leave Cleveland.
Phoenix Suns- They go back to their fast pace ball this year which will help them to get back to where they were in the past and will finish 2nd in the division. They will make the playoffs and could upset someone once there.
Sacramento Kings- Far from their days of being cheated out of a Finals appearance by the refs in a game 7 verse the Lakers, the Kings will need all the help they can get this year. They will finish last in the division and last in the league. They too could use TBG's and CT's method of the 12th man because they don't have 8 good players let alone 12.
MVP- Lebron James
ROY- Johnny Flynn
Most Improved- Tyrus Thomas
Defensive POY- Ron Artest
Finals Cav's vs. Lakers
Champion- Lakers
Coach Tom
NFL Lessons from Week 7
Packers 31- Browns 3
The unbelievable occurred this weekend! The artists formerly known collectively as the Contract Boosters have regained their identity as the Packers offensive line. Previously suffering from multiple personality disorder the hefty group broke out of a group wide identity crisis and allowed zero sacks for the first time all season! The even opened holes on ground as Ryan Grant ran for a season high 148 yards on 27 carries. The Green and Gold dominated every facet of the game as QB Aaron Rodgers threw for 246 and another 3 TD passes, bringing his season total to 11 against only 2 INTs. The Packers D held the Browns to 139 total yards, sacked Cleveland QB Derek Anderson twice and picked him of once. This type of dominating performance is exactly what Packers fan were looking for with the return of Favre due next week. If the O-line can play the way they did in Week 7 the Pack have a chance to split the season series with the Vikes. Things won't get any easier for the Browns next week as they face an angry Ravens team coming off 3 straight loses and a bye week.
Steelers 27- Vikings 17
The Purple People Eaters finally went down. It took the defending Super Bowl champs to do it but other teams can learn from the winning formula.
1. Bottle up Adrian Peterson. No doubt the best running back in the game, the Steelers held Peterson to 69 yards on 18 carries. While other teams like the Packers and 49ers have done a good job at this; 25 carries for 55 yards and 19 carries for 85 yards respectively, this leads to step 2.
2. Pressure Favre. The Steelers sacked the ageless wonder 4 times and picked him at a key time in the game. While it took until Week 7 for a reminder, defenses have always known Favre can be turnover prone. The Steelers won the game in the 4th quarter by exposing Favre's weakness. LaMarr Woodley returned a Favre fumble for a touchdown with 6:23 left and Keyaron Fox brought back an INT to house with 1:00 left to ice the game. While Favre threw for 334 yards, the Steelers managed to keep him touchdownless. But turn about is fair play....
3. Contain Jared Allen. The sack machine was shut out. While the Steelers did allow 3 sacks, Allen is the primary disruptive force against the pass on the Vikings D. When opposing QBs do not have to worry about their blind side they have a chance to beat the outstanding Vikings D.
The Steelers take on the Broncos next. Can they be the first loss for back to back opponents?
Cowboys 37- Falcons 21
World, meet Miles Austin. Entering Week 5 Austin had 5 catches for 81 yards and 1 TD. Two games later he has 21 cathches for 502 yards and 5 TDs. The Cowboys don't have to worry about a number 1 option anymore, huh? The Cowboys won on big plays: a Miles Austin 59 yard TD and a Patrick Crayton 73 yard punt return TD. The Dallas D sacked Atlanta QB Matt Ryan 4 times and picked him twice. After a dysfunctional start, the Cowboys are suddenly 4-2. The Falcons sport the same record and look to be atleast a year or 2 away from Super Bowl contention behind budding superstar Ryan. The Falcons have the Saints next week in an NFC South showdown while the Cowboys host the Seahawks.
8-5 on the picks this week moving me to 66-37.
TBG
The unbelievable occurred this weekend! The artists formerly known collectively as the Contract Boosters have regained their identity as the Packers offensive line. Previously suffering from multiple personality disorder the hefty group broke out of a group wide identity crisis and allowed zero sacks for the first time all season! The even opened holes on ground as Ryan Grant ran for a season high 148 yards on 27 carries. The Green and Gold dominated every facet of the game as QB Aaron Rodgers threw for 246 and another 3 TD passes, bringing his season total to 11 against only 2 INTs. The Packers D held the Browns to 139 total yards, sacked Cleveland QB Derek Anderson twice and picked him of once. This type of dominating performance is exactly what Packers fan were looking for with the return of Favre due next week. If the O-line can play the way they did in Week 7 the Pack have a chance to split the season series with the Vikes. Things won't get any easier for the Browns next week as they face an angry Ravens team coming off 3 straight loses and a bye week.
Steelers 27- Vikings 17
The Purple People Eaters finally went down. It took the defending Super Bowl champs to do it but other teams can learn from the winning formula.
1. Bottle up Adrian Peterson. No doubt the best running back in the game, the Steelers held Peterson to 69 yards on 18 carries. While other teams like the Packers and 49ers have done a good job at this; 25 carries for 55 yards and 19 carries for 85 yards respectively, this leads to step 2.
2. Pressure Favre. The Steelers sacked the ageless wonder 4 times and picked him at a key time in the game. While it took until Week 7 for a reminder, defenses have always known Favre can be turnover prone. The Steelers won the game in the 4th quarter by exposing Favre's weakness. LaMarr Woodley returned a Favre fumble for a touchdown with 6:23 left and Keyaron Fox brought back an INT to house with 1:00 left to ice the game. While Favre threw for 334 yards, the Steelers managed to keep him touchdownless. But turn about is fair play....
3. Contain Jared Allen. The sack machine was shut out. While the Steelers did allow 3 sacks, Allen is the primary disruptive force against the pass on the Vikings D. When opposing QBs do not have to worry about their blind side they have a chance to beat the outstanding Vikings D.
The Steelers take on the Broncos next. Can they be the first loss for back to back opponents?
Cowboys 37- Falcons 21
World, meet Miles Austin. Entering Week 5 Austin had 5 catches for 81 yards and 1 TD. Two games later he has 21 cathches for 502 yards and 5 TDs. The Cowboys don't have to worry about a number 1 option anymore, huh? The Cowboys won on big plays: a Miles Austin 59 yard TD and a Patrick Crayton 73 yard punt return TD. The Dallas D sacked Atlanta QB Matt Ryan 4 times and picked him twice. After a dysfunctional start, the Cowboys are suddenly 4-2. The Falcons sport the same record and look to be atleast a year or 2 away from Super Bowl contention behind budding superstar Ryan. The Falcons have the Saints next week in an NFC South showdown while the Cowboys host the Seahawks.
8-5 on the picks this week moving me to 66-37.
TBG
October 25, 2009
Week 7 Picks From TBG
49ers over Texans- Coming off a bye week the 49ers unveil rookie wideout Michael Crabtree and return running back Frank Gore.
Packers over Browns- This is it ladies and gentlemen. The Packers have given up an average of 5 sacks a game this year. Every opposing team has had one player record at least two sacks. The Browns come in with only 12 team sacks and only one player with more than one. Can the Contract Boosters strike again and find a way to give up another five? Tune in and see!
Chargers over Cheifs- Not a close one.
Colts over Rams- Really not a close one.
Steelers over Viks- The Steeler D slows the Purple attack just enough as Big Ben has another huge day through the air with Vikings cornerback Antoine Winfield out.
Pats over Bucs- The London Massacre. After a 59-blouses win, the Pats face a quarterbackless team. Don't expect another 59 spot but this is the third straight blowout on this list.
Jets over Raiders- An interesting one. While it has been chic to blast Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell this year, Jets rookie play caller Mark Sanchez has also hit a bump: 1 TD and 8 INTs in his last 3 games. Maybe USC coach Pete Carroll knew what he was talking about when he said Sanchez wasn't NFL ready after his junior year. This blogger thought Kellen Clemens looked solid enough to start in preseason. Look for Clemens to get action if Sanchez struggles again.
Panthers over Bills- Anyone capable of throwing a football in the Buffalo area?
Bengals over Bears- Bears had a rough go of it last week in Atlanta. Cutler was not at fault, neither was the D. Fumbles at the goal line are unacceptable. So are false starts on 4th and 1. Look for this to be a hard fought game. Two good teams coming off loses. Homefield for Cincy gives them the edge.
Falcons over Cowboys- Fact: The Cowboys are not very good. Other Fact: Matt Ryan is an outstanding quarterback.
Dolphins over Saints- The Saints offense is great but the defense is opportunistic, not lights out. Look for the Dolphins to get on the board first and hold on for a close win.
Giants over Cards- Arizona is not a road team.
Eagles over Racists- Jim Zorn staying for the whole year? Who knows? Who cares? His team needs to execute better. The Eagles need to run more. Look for one of those two to happen.
Last Week: 7-7 Overall: 58-32
TBG
Packers over Browns- This is it ladies and gentlemen. The Packers have given up an average of 5 sacks a game this year. Every opposing team has had one player record at least two sacks. The Browns come in with only 12 team sacks and only one player with more than one. Can the Contract Boosters strike again and find a way to give up another five? Tune in and see!
Chargers over Cheifs- Not a close one.
Colts over Rams- Really not a close one.
Steelers over Viks- The Steeler D slows the Purple attack just enough as Big Ben has another huge day through the air with Vikings cornerback Antoine Winfield out.
Pats over Bucs- The London Massacre. After a 59-blouses win, the Pats face a quarterbackless team. Don't expect another 59 spot but this is the third straight blowout on this list.
Jets over Raiders- An interesting one. While it has been chic to blast Raiders QB JaMarcus Russell this year, Jets rookie play caller Mark Sanchez has also hit a bump: 1 TD and 8 INTs in his last 3 games. Maybe USC coach Pete Carroll knew what he was talking about when he said Sanchez wasn't NFL ready after his junior year. This blogger thought Kellen Clemens looked solid enough to start in preseason. Look for Clemens to get action if Sanchez struggles again.
Panthers over Bills- Anyone capable of throwing a football in the Buffalo area?
Bengals over Bears- Bears had a rough go of it last week in Atlanta. Cutler was not at fault, neither was the D. Fumbles at the goal line are unacceptable. So are false starts on 4th and 1. Look for this to be a hard fought game. Two good teams coming off loses. Homefield for Cincy gives them the edge.
Falcons over Cowboys- Fact: The Cowboys are not very good. Other Fact: Matt Ryan is an outstanding quarterback.
Dolphins over Saints- The Saints offense is great but the defense is opportunistic, not lights out. Look for the Dolphins to get on the board first and hold on for a close win.
Giants over Cards- Arizona is not a road team.
Eagles over Racists- Jim Zorn staying for the whole year? Who knows? Who cares? His team needs to execute better. The Eagles need to run more. Look for one of those two to happen.
Last Week: 7-7 Overall: 58-32
TBG
October 21, 2009
College Football Week 8
Here are my picks for this week in college football.
1. Florida vs. Miss St.- Florida
2. Alabama vs. Tennessee- Alabama
3. Texas vs. Missouri- Texas
4. Boise St. vs. Hawaii- Boise St.
5. Cincinnati vs. Louisville- Cinncy
6. Iowa vs. Mich St.- Iowa
7. USC vs. Oregon St.- USC
8. TCU vs. BYU- TCU
9. LSU vs. Auburn- LSU
10. Miami (FL.) vs Clemson- Miami (FL.)
11. Oregon vs. Washington- Washington
12. Georgia Tech vs. Virgina- Georgia Tech
13. Penn St. vs Michigan- Michigan
14. Virgina Tech week off
15. OK ST. vs Baylor- OK ST
16. BYU vs. TCU- TCU
17. Houston vs. SMU- Houston
18. Utah vs. Air Force- Utah
19. Ohio St. vs. Minnesota- Ohio St.
20. Pitt vs. South Florida- South Florida
21. Wisconsin week off
22. Arizona vs. UCLA- Arizona
23. West Virgina vs. UCONN- West Virgina
24. South Carolina vs. Vanderbilt- South Carolina
25. Kansas vs. Oklahoma- Oklahoma
Not many upsets on paper this week. I think Michigan may be able to pull one off. As can Washington.
Game of the week. TCU vs. BYU. TCU needs to win to keep their BSC hopes alive.
Coach Tom
1. Florida vs. Miss St.- Florida
2. Alabama vs. Tennessee- Alabama
3. Texas vs. Missouri- Texas
4. Boise St. vs. Hawaii- Boise St.
5. Cincinnati vs. Louisville- Cinncy
6. Iowa vs. Mich St.- Iowa
7. USC vs. Oregon St.- USC
8. TCU vs. BYU- TCU
9. LSU vs. Auburn- LSU
10. Miami (FL.) vs Clemson- Miami (FL.)
11. Oregon vs. Washington- Washington
12. Georgia Tech vs. Virgina- Georgia Tech
13. Penn St. vs Michigan- Michigan
14. Virgina Tech week off
15. OK ST. vs Baylor- OK ST
16. BYU vs. TCU- TCU
17. Houston vs. SMU- Houston
18. Utah vs. Air Force- Utah
19. Ohio St. vs. Minnesota- Ohio St.
20. Pitt vs. South Florida- South Florida
21. Wisconsin week off
22. Arizona vs. UCLA- Arizona
23. West Virgina vs. UCONN- West Virgina
24. South Carolina vs. Vanderbilt- South Carolina
25. Kansas vs. Oklahoma- Oklahoma
Not many upsets on paper this week. I think Michigan may be able to pull one off. As can Washington.
Game of the week. TCU vs. BYU. TCU needs to win to keep their BSC hopes alive.
Coach Tom
October 20, 2009
Worst Call Ever
This just in...this is the worst umpired postseason I have ever seen. The third base umpire, Tim Mcclelland, just blew the most simplistic call. Jorge Posada, having already made a baserunning error by not scoring from second on a Robinson Cano double with one out, got caught in a pickle between third and home on a come backer to the pitcher. The pitcher threw the ball to the catcher who ran Posada back to third. Cano advanced, as he should have, with the lead runner caught in a run down. However, Cano did not step on third. Angels catcher Mike Napoli tagged Cano while he was off the bag and then tagged Posada as he too was off the bag. If a player is off the bag and tagged with the ball, he is out. However, only Posada was called out! The umpire anticipated Cano touching third, but he did not. While the Angels got the third out the next at-bat, therefore preventing the call from influencing the game, this call was egregious and could have hurt the home team.
TBG
TBG
October 18, 2009
Week 6 NFL Picks
Bengals
Packers
Ravens
Saints
Steelers
Panthers
Racists
Jags
Cardinals
Eagles
Pats
Jets
Bears
Chargers
TBG
Packers
Ravens
Saints
Steelers
Panthers
Racists
Jags
Cardinals
Eagles
Pats
Jets
Bears
Chargers
TBG
October 17, 2009
Addendum
Well, Bradford is out. And it is obviously the same shoulder injury as before, an AC joint. The hit that put Bradford out this time was not as bad as before. The joint is obviously still loose. This type of continual damage can often lead to tendanitis later in a players career. Bradford needs to stop for the season. He has too much to achieve later in his career. He is a junior and if he feels the need to prove more on the collegiate level he can come back next year fully healthy. I also believe he is the best QB in college right now and the NFL will come calling, definitely earlier next year now, when he is ready. I would recommend he comes back next year, puts away any injury doubt, and enters the NFL as the number 1 pick two years from now.
TBG
TBG
Red River Rivalry
Look for Oklahoma to upend Texas in today's Red River Rivalry. Texas hasn't been tested yet and Oklahoma has nothing to lose as they are already out of the National Championship picture. Oklahoma was a very good team without Bradford and with the best quarterback in the nation, they are great. 31-24
TBG
TBG
October 15, 2009
The College Experience
Let’s face it, expectations for the 2009 Illini football team were a bit inflated. We supposedly had the deepest receiving core in the nation, a senior quarterback ready to go out on top and so much talent in the backfield the only question was how to distribute the carries fairly. Instead our best receiver, Arrelious Benn, has only 13 catches, Orange fans were squeezed out of Juice and his replacement Eddie McGee is tied for the team lead in rushing touchdowns. Coach Ron Zook, considered a program savior just two years ago, is sitting on a seat hotter than Megan Fox. Things have not gone according to plan.
While the offense has been abysmal, the defense has shown a few bright spots. Sophomore Tavon Wilson’s move from safety to corner was a success last week as he came up strong in run support. Fellow second year player Corey Liuget has been solid at defensive tackle. Also look for tackle Corey Lewis to continue to win more playing time over senior Ryan Palmer.
But enough analysis. Let’s look at the positives the football team continues to offer.
My family came down for homecoming weekend and I had a great time attending the game with them. Pregame tailgating is a must for many families and is enjoyable win or lose. Sitting with my grandpa during the game, he continually remarked to me how impressive the stadium and crowd was. He never went to college. He graduated high school, participated in the Korean War and became a salesman. I talk to him on the phone frequently and he always joking asks if he can go around school with me for a week. My mother attended community college in the Detroit area and never enjoyed the major college experience. Whenever I complain about the University she always reminds me of what a privilege it is to go here. One of the most enjoyable privileges is waking up on Saturday morning and blending in with the 50,000 plus crowd of orange. While it is more enjoyable watching an Illini win, we will not remember the scores of the games as much as the fun experiences we had in the orange Saturday seas
TBG
While the offense has been abysmal, the defense has shown a few bright spots. Sophomore Tavon Wilson’s move from safety to corner was a success last week as he came up strong in run support. Fellow second year player Corey Liuget has been solid at defensive tackle. Also look for tackle Corey Lewis to continue to win more playing time over senior Ryan Palmer.
But enough analysis. Let’s look at the positives the football team continues to offer.
My family came down for homecoming weekend and I had a great time attending the game with them. Pregame tailgating is a must for many families and is enjoyable win or lose. Sitting with my grandpa during the game, he continually remarked to me how impressive the stadium and crowd was. He never went to college. He graduated high school, participated in the Korean War and became a salesman. I talk to him on the phone frequently and he always joking asks if he can go around school with me for a week. My mother attended community college in the Detroit area and never enjoyed the major college experience. Whenever I complain about the University she always reminds me of what a privilege it is to go here. One of the most enjoyable privileges is waking up on Saturday morning and blending in with the 50,000 plus crowd of orange. While it is more enjoyable watching an Illini win, we will not remember the scores of the games as much as the fun experiences we had in the orange Saturday seas
TBG
October 14, 2009
Arrelious Benn To Leave Early
So I walk into the sauna after a workout with my man Ted. I sit down next to this man who is way larger than me. He's talking to his girl about football and I ask him if he is on the football team. I talk to him for a little while and I realize I never got his name.
"What's your name?" I ask.
"Arrelious," he says in a light voice.
"Benn?" I ask.
"Yeah," he says.
For those who don't know Arrelious is the 5 star wide receiver recruit Zook pulled down in 2007.
Since then Benn has not gotten the ball enough in Zook's offense but shined when he has. The frustration has apparently boiled over. I asked him what he planned to do after this year.
"I'm out. I gotta move on, man," Benn said. "I'm a top 10 pick."
Benn said he has avoided talking to agents, as discussions between amateur athletes and NFL agents is not allowed.
But with that, Benn unofficially announced his plan to leave early.
TBG
"What's your name?" I ask.
"Arrelious," he says in a light voice.
"Benn?" I ask.
"Yeah," he says.
For those who don't know Arrelious is the 5 star wide receiver recruit Zook pulled down in 2007.
Since then Benn has not gotten the ball enough in Zook's offense but shined when he has. The frustration has apparently boiled over. I asked him what he planned to do after this year.
"I'm out. I gotta move on, man," Benn said. "I'm a top 10 pick."
Benn said he has avoided talking to agents, as discussions between amateur athletes and NFL agents is not allowed.
But with that, Benn unofficially announced his plan to leave early.
TBG
October 13, 2009
Lessons and Notes from Week 5
Dolphins 31- Jets 27
Is Chad Henne for real? A lot of reports have been coming out from Miami highlighting the organizations high regard for the Michigan man. While I remember Henne as a dual knee braced slightly above average QB, he looked great last night. His deep balls were on point and, with the Wildcat taking some pressure from him, comfortable. The Dolphins are 2-3 going into a bye until their Week 7 game with at New Orleans. If the Phins are gonna make a real run after their 0-3 start, they have to win that game.
Meanwhile, the Jets D apparently missed the memo. That was TWO (2) road games in a row, not one! Zero QB hits likely made Henne look a lot better than he should have looked. Expect the Jets to get to 4-2 next week with an easy game against the offensively inept Bills at home.
Browns 6- Bills 3
I feel so badly for those who had to watch this. Cleveland fans watched their passing attack fail like an early Wright Brothers flight. The Browns team completed one more pass to the right team than Ronnie Brown did Monday night. Your starting quarterback....DEEEERREEEEHHHHHKKKKKK AAAANNNNDDDDEEERRRSOOOOOONNNN!I don't know if his legendary 2-17 for 23 yard performance speaks more poorly of him or Myoplex man Brady Quinn. How bad did Quinn look in practice that week? He didn't take a single snap in the game. Anyway, the Browns got off the schneid.
Where did the Bills offense go? Fred Jackson looked like a great dark horse Pro Bowl candidate the first two weeks. They scored 59 points the first two weeks! Since their 1-1 start, they have 20 points and 3 loses. The Terrell Owens experiment is a failure in Buffalo as he continues to be taken out of the offense by opposing defenses. He recorded his season high in catches last week, bringing in 4. That is not enough for him to help himself or the team. Buffalo is going nowhere fast.
Steelers 28- Lions 20
The Lions lost another close one. Stafford was out and Culpepper looked like a decent backup. While he reminded fans of his fumblitis, 3 on the day, he did throw for 282 yards. The Lions did well to cut down their penalties, only 6, they have a lot of areas in need of improvement.
The Steelers won on the road in the NFL. That's hard to do anywhere, even in Detroit. Style points don't play in the big leagues so let's call it a win and move on.
Cowboys 26- Chiefs 20
Style points? Yeah, they play in Dallas. And let's be honest, the Boys looks bad. If it hadn't been for The Miles Austin Explosion, Dallas probably loses. They were minus 2 on turnovers and recorded 13 penalties. Good teams do not do that. Dallas is off Week 6 and I honestly have no idea what kind of team will play the Falcons Week 7. They are the Florida State of the NFL.
The Chiefs suck.
Vikings 38- Rams 10
The Vikes continue to roll and have serious contender status. Favre has 1 TD and 1 INT in his 40s. Adrian Peterson was held to his fourth straight sub-100 yard game. Weeks 6 versus Baltimore will be great.
The Rams are the worst team in the NFL. They have scored 34 points this year. Get ready Sam Bradford.
Giants 44- Raiders 7
It took the Giants 34:59 to outscore the Rams' season total. The game was over before it started. The Giants recorded 6 sacks while the Raiders hit the QB once. JaMarcus Russell threw for 100 yards on the day. There is no way he is better than fellow training camp QB Jeff Garcia. More on that later.
The Giants are 5-0 with a trip to the Saints next week. Maybe this New York D will fair better against the NO assault. A battle of undefeateds in Week 6 will be a treat.
Eagles 33- Bucs 14
McNabb and Westbrook looked solid and healthy in an easy win. Vick was a non-factor while a TBG favorite Asante Samuel picked Bucs QB Josh Johnson twice. Bucs fan can expect to see atleast one other QB start this year as the Bucs are thick in the Sam Bradford race (0-5).
A sweet cruise to Oakland will have the Eagles 4-1 for their Monday Night game against the Washington Racists. That game could be a final nail in coach Jim Zorn's coffin with a Week 8 bye looking like a good potential coaching switch week.
Panthers 20- Racists 17
Bad game. The Racists blew a 17-2 lead. Running back Clinton Portis only recorded 57 yards while QB Jason Campbell threw for a lowly 145 yards. Gotta take the reins off every now and then to win, Zorn. Both teams are bad and Zorn is on the hot seat again after a loss like this.
Bengals 17- Ravens 14
The Bengals are 5-0 as far as I'm concerned. This team is a real contender. My boy Rey Maualuga led the Bengals in tackles and tackles for loss. QB Carson Palmer led Cinncy to a nice comeback throwing his only TD of the day. This team has enough on both sides of the ball to play with anyone. However, with three straight victories coming by 3 points, look for next weeks visit by the Texans to be a trap game. Can't take an week easy in the NFL
My Super Bowl Ravens dropped their second straight game. With Minnesota, Denver and another Cinncy game in the next four weeks, the Ravens are going to be battle tested by midseason. I still feel solid about them and am eager to see how they rebound against the Viks.
Falcons 45- 49ers 10
The 49ers aren't there yet. They missed Frank Gore and ached over Shaun Hill. This teams defense will continue to win them games this year but need help from the other side of the ball.
The Falcons looked sharp out of their bye and moved to 3-1. Matt Ryan threw for 329 yards and 2 TDs. 148 yards on the ground made for a balanced attack. A Sunday Night meeting with Chicago in the Georgia Dome could be a big win for this team.
Seahawks 41- Jags 0
Seeing a theme yet? A great running back is nothing by himself. Maurice Jones-Drew, Larry Johnson, Steven Jackson and Run DMC have a total of 3 wins this year. Hasselbeck looked solid in his return and Aaron Curry has another sack. Both of these teams are bad and Jacksonville looks due for a new coach.
Cards 28- Texans 21
The Cards win at home, but almost blew this one. 21-0 at half, the game was 21-21 with 6:59 left. An All Junior Team member Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie came up huge with the game winning INT return. Andre Johnson out did Larry Fitzgerald in catches, 8 to 5, and yards, 101 to 79, while they both had 2 TDs. At 2-2 Arizona is a contender in the weak NFC West.
Broncos 20- Pats 17
The Broncos again proved this blogger wrong. QB Kyle Orton played out of his mind, tearing the Pats D for 330 yards. The Wildhorse wrinkle was great. Having Orton come from out wide to under center proved very effective. Tom Brady just is not looking the same as he did pre-injury. Four straight sub-300 yard games is not Bradyesque, he had 8 300-plus yard games in 2007. Fact of the matter is, the Pats offense is not the juggernaut it was in '07. The Broncos look like Super Bowl contenders, with a great defense and a QB who threw his first INT in his best game of the season. Look for the Pats to bounce back against the Titans. The Broncos have a good AFC West test next against a rested Chargers team.
Colts 31- Titans 9
Brady may be having his struggles but Manning is on point. He has thrown for 300 plus in every game this year. Look for Manning to pull down his fourth MVP. Kerry Collins is done in the NFL. The Titans need to start Vince Young. And if he isn't the answer, draft a QB in the offseason. And in regard to their defense; was Albert Haynesworth that influential?
Last week I announced an open tryout for any Schmo off the street to become a Packers O-lineman. I hear a couple other teams are doing similar ploys this week. The openings include:
Raiders QB (No Garcia's welcome!)
Browns QB
Only 8-6 only the picks last week.
TBG
Is Chad Henne for real? A lot of reports have been coming out from Miami highlighting the organizations high regard for the Michigan man. While I remember Henne as a dual knee braced slightly above average QB, he looked great last night. His deep balls were on point and, with the Wildcat taking some pressure from him, comfortable. The Dolphins are 2-3 going into a bye until their Week 7 game with at New Orleans. If the Phins are gonna make a real run after their 0-3 start, they have to win that game.
Meanwhile, the Jets D apparently missed the memo. That was TWO (2) road games in a row, not one! Zero QB hits likely made Henne look a lot better than he should have looked. Expect the Jets to get to 4-2 next week with an easy game against the offensively inept Bills at home.
Browns 6- Bills 3
I feel so badly for those who had to watch this. Cleveland fans watched their passing attack fail like an early Wright Brothers flight. The Browns team completed one more pass to the right team than Ronnie Brown did Monday night. Your starting quarterback....DEEEERREEEEHHHHHKKKKKK AAAANNNNDDDDEEERRRSOOOOOONNNN!I don't know if his legendary 2-17 for 23 yard performance speaks more poorly of him or Myoplex man Brady Quinn. How bad did Quinn look in practice that week? He didn't take a single snap in the game. Anyway, the Browns got off the schneid.
Where did the Bills offense go? Fred Jackson looked like a great dark horse Pro Bowl candidate the first two weeks. They scored 59 points the first two weeks! Since their 1-1 start, they have 20 points and 3 loses. The Terrell Owens experiment is a failure in Buffalo as he continues to be taken out of the offense by opposing defenses. He recorded his season high in catches last week, bringing in 4. That is not enough for him to help himself or the team. Buffalo is going nowhere fast.
Steelers 28- Lions 20
The Lions lost another close one. Stafford was out and Culpepper looked like a decent backup. While he reminded fans of his fumblitis, 3 on the day, he did throw for 282 yards. The Lions did well to cut down their penalties, only 6, they have a lot of areas in need of improvement.
The Steelers won on the road in the NFL. That's hard to do anywhere, even in Detroit. Style points don't play in the big leagues so let's call it a win and move on.
Cowboys 26- Chiefs 20
Style points? Yeah, they play in Dallas. And let's be honest, the Boys looks bad. If it hadn't been for The Miles Austin Explosion, Dallas probably loses. They were minus 2 on turnovers and recorded 13 penalties. Good teams do not do that. Dallas is off Week 6 and I honestly have no idea what kind of team will play the Falcons Week 7. They are the Florida State of the NFL.
The Chiefs suck.
Vikings 38- Rams 10
The Vikes continue to roll and have serious contender status. Favre has 1 TD and 1 INT in his 40s. Adrian Peterson was held to his fourth straight sub-100 yard game. Weeks 6 versus Baltimore will be great.
The Rams are the worst team in the NFL. They have scored 34 points this year. Get ready Sam Bradford.
Giants 44- Raiders 7
It took the Giants 34:59 to outscore the Rams' season total. The game was over before it started. The Giants recorded 6 sacks while the Raiders hit the QB once. JaMarcus Russell threw for 100 yards on the day. There is no way he is better than fellow training camp QB Jeff Garcia. More on that later.
The Giants are 5-0 with a trip to the Saints next week. Maybe this New York D will fair better against the NO assault. A battle of undefeateds in Week 6 will be a treat.
Eagles 33- Bucs 14
McNabb and Westbrook looked solid and healthy in an easy win. Vick was a non-factor while a TBG favorite Asante Samuel picked Bucs QB Josh Johnson twice. Bucs fan can expect to see atleast one other QB start this year as the Bucs are thick in the Sam Bradford race (0-5).
A sweet cruise to Oakland will have the Eagles 4-1 for their Monday Night game against the Washington Racists. That game could be a final nail in coach Jim Zorn's coffin with a Week 8 bye looking like a good potential coaching switch week.
Panthers 20- Racists 17
Bad game. The Racists blew a 17-2 lead. Running back Clinton Portis only recorded 57 yards while QB Jason Campbell threw for a lowly 145 yards. Gotta take the reins off every now and then to win, Zorn. Both teams are bad and Zorn is on the hot seat again after a loss like this.
Bengals 17- Ravens 14
The Bengals are 5-0 as far as I'm concerned. This team is a real contender. My boy Rey Maualuga led the Bengals in tackles and tackles for loss. QB Carson Palmer led Cinncy to a nice comeback throwing his only TD of the day. This team has enough on both sides of the ball to play with anyone. However, with three straight victories coming by 3 points, look for next weeks visit by the Texans to be a trap game. Can't take an week easy in the NFL
My Super Bowl Ravens dropped their second straight game. With Minnesota, Denver and another Cinncy game in the next four weeks, the Ravens are going to be battle tested by midseason. I still feel solid about them and am eager to see how they rebound against the Viks.
Falcons 45- 49ers 10
The 49ers aren't there yet. They missed Frank Gore and ached over Shaun Hill. This teams defense will continue to win them games this year but need help from the other side of the ball.
The Falcons looked sharp out of their bye and moved to 3-1. Matt Ryan threw for 329 yards and 2 TDs. 148 yards on the ground made for a balanced attack. A Sunday Night meeting with Chicago in the Georgia Dome could be a big win for this team.
Seahawks 41- Jags 0
Seeing a theme yet? A great running back is nothing by himself. Maurice Jones-Drew, Larry Johnson, Steven Jackson and Run DMC have a total of 3 wins this year. Hasselbeck looked solid in his return and Aaron Curry has another sack. Both of these teams are bad and Jacksonville looks due for a new coach.
Cards 28- Texans 21
The Cards win at home, but almost blew this one. 21-0 at half, the game was 21-21 with 6:59 left. An All Junior Team member Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie came up huge with the game winning INT return. Andre Johnson out did Larry Fitzgerald in catches, 8 to 5, and yards, 101 to 79, while they both had 2 TDs. At 2-2 Arizona is a contender in the weak NFC West.
Broncos 20- Pats 17
The Broncos again proved this blogger wrong. QB Kyle Orton played out of his mind, tearing the Pats D for 330 yards. The Wildhorse wrinkle was great. Having Orton come from out wide to under center proved very effective. Tom Brady just is not looking the same as he did pre-injury. Four straight sub-300 yard games is not Bradyesque, he had 8 300-plus yard games in 2007. Fact of the matter is, the Pats offense is not the juggernaut it was in '07. The Broncos look like Super Bowl contenders, with a great defense and a QB who threw his first INT in his best game of the season. Look for the Pats to bounce back against the Titans. The Broncos have a good AFC West test next against a rested Chargers team.
Colts 31- Titans 9
Brady may be having his struggles but Manning is on point. He has thrown for 300 plus in every game this year. Look for Manning to pull down his fourth MVP. Kerry Collins is done in the NFL. The Titans need to start Vince Young. And if he isn't the answer, draft a QB in the offseason. And in regard to their defense; was Albert Haynesworth that influential?
Last week I announced an open tryout for any Schmo off the street to become a Packers O-lineman. I hear a couple other teams are doing similar ploys this week. The openings include:
Raiders QB (No Garcia's welcome!)
Browns QB
Only 8-6 only the picks last week.
TBG
October 11, 2009
NFL Week 5 Picks
After a great slate of games last week, this week does not look to good on paper, but who knows maybe there will be some games closer than expected.
Bills over Browns
Steelers over Lions
Cowboys over Chiefs
Vikings over Rams
Giants over Raiders
Eagles over Tampa
Panthers over Redskins
Ravens over Bengals
49ers over Falcons- This week will prove if the 49ers have taken that step to get back to the playoffs.
Broncos over Pats- TBG can you please give the Broncos and Orton some love. Their defense is too solid and look for them to upset the Pats and TBG at home this week.
Texans over Cardinals
Jags over Seahawks
Colts over Titans- Will the Titans of last year ever show up?
Dolphins over Jets
Coach Tom
Bills over Browns
Steelers over Lions
Cowboys over Chiefs
Vikings over Rams
Giants over Raiders
Eagles over Tampa
Panthers over Redskins
Ravens over Bengals
49ers over Falcons- This week will prove if the 49ers have taken that step to get back to the playoffs.
Broncos over Pats- TBG can you please give the Broncos and Orton some love. Their defense is too solid and look for them to upset the Pats and TBG at home this week.
Texans over Cardinals
Jags over Seahawks
Colts over Titans- Will the Titans of last year ever show up?
Dolphins over Jets
Coach Tom
College Review
The top 25 finally gets a break with all teams winning except for Auburn. I tried to get on the LSU band wagon by picking them to beat Florida, but Florida may never loose until Tebow is away from the school. 20 of the 21 games is not bad though and the biggest game to me was the Michigan vs Iowa game. With all the hype of Forcier and Michigan being back to the power house they once were Iowa wins again improving to 6-0 and still my favorite to win the Big 10 if they can get through the next two weeks on the road. Forcier was benched in the 4th quarter Saturday night finally proving he really is a true freshmen. Iowa proved they have a very solid defense and the offense is improcing every week. Stanzi is getting more confidence each week and the team just continues to get stronger. Maybe it's time to consider some Hawkeye love for a Big 10 title, but they still have Ohio St at the end of the year and the winner of that will probably win the Big 10. Lets go Hawks.
Coach Tom
Coach Tom
Week 5 NFL Picks
The lineup this week looks pretty boring on paper, with only 2 games really catching my eye. But look for a couple upsets this week, they play the games for a reason.
Bills over Browns
Steelers over Lions
Chiefs over Cowboys
VIkings over Rams
Giants over Raiders
Eagles over Bucs
Panthers over Redskins
Ravens over Bengals
Falcons over 49ers- The Dirty Birds are coming off a bye week and the extra week of rest and preparation will be huge in a close game. The absense of Frank Gore leaves the 49ers one more big play short of a win.
Pats over Broncos- The master teaches his disciple another lesson. Bill Belichick's Pats score just enough to win on the road over the surprising Josh McDaniel Broncs.
Cards over Texans
Jags over Seahawks
Colts over Titans
Jets over Dolphins
TBG
Bills over Browns
Steelers over Lions
Chiefs over Cowboys
VIkings over Rams
Giants over Raiders
Eagles over Bucs
Panthers over Redskins
Ravens over Bengals
Falcons over 49ers- The Dirty Birds are coming off a bye week and the extra week of rest and preparation will be huge in a close game. The absense of Frank Gore leaves the 49ers one more big play short of a win.
Pats over Broncos- The master teaches his disciple another lesson. Bill Belichick's Pats score just enough to win on the road over the surprising Josh McDaniel Broncs.
Cards over Texans
Jags over Seahawks
Colts over Titans
Jets over Dolphins
TBG
October 8, 2009
Weather to Influence Nebraska-Mizzou Game
There is no questioning Mizzou QB Blaine Gabbert's success so far this season. But look for Mizzou's air game to be grounded tonight. The rain will spoil the Tigers passing attack and turn the game to the ground. Nebraska holds the advantage on both sides of the ball in the running game and will knock Mizzou from the undefeated ranks. Nebraska running back Roy Helu Jr. scores twice at Faurot Field. Nebraska 24- Mizzou 13.
TBG
TBG
Eagles Miscue
A report is out stating Eagles coach Andy Reid will start QB Donovan McNabb this week. It also mentions McNabb is still experiencing discomfort and will wear a protective jacket during the game. To play McNabb against an 0-4 Buccaneers team at home is a poor choice. Replacement Kevin Kolb has proven himself to be a more than capable backup, 718 passing yards in his two starts, and could easily lead the Eagles to a victory this week. Also using running back Brian Westbrook for anything more than 10 touches while he continues to recover from an ankle injury is silly. Pitt star LeSean McCoy was drafted in the second round to fill in for the annual Westbrook questionable listing on the IR. Get the win over the terrible Bucs and take one more week to get healthy. 3-1 is 3-1, Eagles, with or without McNabb and Westbrook.
TBG
TBG
October 7, 2009
Browns Conspiracy
CT and I were talking yesterday about the lack of blockbuster trades in the NFL. I mean really, there are never any big trades during the season. No big ESPN trade deadline special. And then today, as if the NFL gods were listening, the Browns traded Braylon Edwards to the Jets. Not just traded him, dumped him. Wide receiver Chansi Stuckey, linebacker Jason Tusnik and two draft picks. Unless those are major picks, that's not much of a haul for a player who can be a premier receiver in the league when focused.
However, there is something else here. Clearly 2 JAGS, (Just A Guy) and 2 picks isn't the whole story. Less than a week ago Edwards reportedly punched a friend of Cleveland King LeBron James. We here at CT&TBG believe the Browns are making a move in effort to get King James in a Browns jersey.
"Hey LeBron, even if one of our players punches one of your boys when your not on our team, we got your back. Just think about wearing a 23 Browns jersey in the off season."
Ready to Do Whatever You Want,
Browns Ownership
Just imagine LeBron lining up under center in the NFL. Being a goal line receiver. An outside linebacker. Can you say 3,000 passing yards, 1,000 rushing, 20 TD catches, 40 sacks? Who could stop that type of athlete on the football field? He could out jump everyone, blow past any tackle, bowl over secondary players and outrun anyone his size.
While we here at CT&TBG doubt this will ever happen, we commend the Browns effort. It's not like anything else they're doing is putting butts in seats.
TBG
However, there is something else here. Clearly 2 JAGS, (Just A Guy) and 2 picks isn't the whole story. Less than a week ago Edwards reportedly punched a friend of Cleveland King LeBron James. We here at CT&TBG believe the Browns are making a move in effort to get King James in a Browns jersey.
"Hey LeBron, even if one of our players punches one of your boys when your not on our team, we got your back. Just think about wearing a 23 Browns jersey in the off season."
Ready to Do Whatever You Want,
Browns Ownership
Just imagine LeBron lining up under center in the NFL. Being a goal line receiver. An outside linebacker. Can you say 3,000 passing yards, 1,000 rushing, 20 TD catches, 40 sacks? Who could stop that type of athlete on the football field? He could out jump everyone, blow past any tackle, bowl over secondary players and outrun anyone his size.
While we here at CT&TBG doubt this will ever happen, we commend the Browns effort. It's not like anything else they're doing is putting butts in seats.
TBG
AL Playoff Preview
Twins- Yankees
Yankees in 3. The Yankees are TBG's World Series pick. The Twins were his September darling. But it is October now and great pitching wins. Great pitching like C.C. Sabathia, Mariano Rivera, A.J. Burnett, Andy Pettitte and Phil Hughes. Since becoming a reliever at the start of June, Hughes has posted monthly ERAs of 1.38, 0.61, 1.74 and 1.42. His ERA dropped from 5.45 to 3.04 during that span. The Twins do not have the lineup or the pitching to compete with the Yankees and fall quickly.
Red Sox- Angels
Interesting series. Expect it to go 5. Both teams feature solid starting pitching. Red Sox ace Josh Beckett is already a postseason legend, bursting onto the scene as a 23-year old stud pitching a World Series clinching complete game shutout in Yankee Stadium. In 2007 he was 4-0 with 1.20 ERA in 30 postseason innings. While his 2008 postseason was rough, 8.79 ERA in 14 1/3, look for him to dominate again. The Angels counter with another October ace in John Lackey. In 58 1/3 career playoff innings he's recorded a 3.39 ERA. The starting pitching in this series is a push while the bullpen advantage goes to the Sox. The Angels have a 1-9 incomparable in baseball, home field advantage and better average hitting. But better power pitching and power hitting along with table setters like Pedroia and Ellsbury win in October. Close series, but it'll be Yanks-Sox for the AL championship.
TBG
Yankees in 3. The Yankees are TBG's World Series pick. The Twins were his September darling. But it is October now and great pitching wins. Great pitching like C.C. Sabathia, Mariano Rivera, A.J. Burnett, Andy Pettitte and Phil Hughes. Since becoming a reliever at the start of June, Hughes has posted monthly ERAs of 1.38, 0.61, 1.74 and 1.42. His ERA dropped from 5.45 to 3.04 during that span. The Twins do not have the lineup or the pitching to compete with the Yankees and fall quickly.
Red Sox- Angels
Interesting series. Expect it to go 5. Both teams feature solid starting pitching. Red Sox ace Josh Beckett is already a postseason legend, bursting onto the scene as a 23-year old stud pitching a World Series clinching complete game shutout in Yankee Stadium. In 2007 he was 4-0 with 1.20 ERA in 30 postseason innings. While his 2008 postseason was rough, 8.79 ERA in 14 1/3, look for him to dominate again. The Angels counter with another October ace in John Lackey. In 58 1/3 career playoff innings he's recorded a 3.39 ERA. The starting pitching in this series is a push while the bullpen advantage goes to the Sox. The Angels have a 1-9 incomparable in baseball, home field advantage and better average hitting. But better power pitching and power hitting along with table setters like Pedroia and Ellsbury win in October. Close series, but it'll be Yanks-Sox for the AL championship.
TBG
Week 5 College Football Preview
Here are my picks for week 5 football.
1. Florida- Finally Florida goes down to a tough opponent LSU. The game is at LSU and it is a night game. Last time Tebow went to Tiger Stadium it ended in a loss, look for the past to repeat itself this year.
2. Texas- Taking on Colorado, Texas again wins big. Colorado lost to Colorado St. and is not the same team they used to be.
3. Alabama- This week the Tide takes on the former No.5 Ole Miss in the road. This game may be closer then some think, but I think the Tide's defense is too strong and shuts down the Ole Miss offense.
4. LSU- Night game at Tiger Stadium is enough said. Simply put the Tigers do not lose at home. This game will be close but last week the Tigers proved themselves, although I believe the refs helped them win. But saying that, the Tigers win a big one at home.
5. Va Tech- At home against a Boston College team that came off a big win vs Florida St. Look for Va Tech to win a big one.
6. Boise St. Won but went down in the rankings. Bye this week
7. USC- Bye Week
8. Cincinnati- Bye Week
9. Ohio St.- The Buckeyes need to be careful this week. The Badgers are undefeated and are under the radar. This could be a game to watch for the Buckeyes to go down. Saying that I think they win close at home.
10. TCU. At Air Force and win again to move up in the rankings.
11. Miami (FL)- After a huge win against OK the Hurricanes take on Florida AM. Miami proved that they weren't a bust after all the hype and win easy this week.
12.Iowa- Continuing to improve week by week Iowa wins a big ABC Saturday Night game at home against Michigan. Forcier is a very good freshman, but has yet to prove himself for a whole game on the road this year.
13. Oregon- After a very impressive win against Cal two weeks ago and a blowout win over Washington State Oregon continues to roll over UCLA.
14. Penn St.- Takes on Eastern Illinois and wins easy.
15. Ok St.- Takes on Texas A&M on the road. Could be close but OK St. wins.
16. Kansas- At home against Iowa St, should win easy.
17. Auburn- Tough road test against a high powered offense in the Razorbacks. If Arkansas defense steps up at home there could be an upset. Arkansas wins close if the defense comes to play.
18. BYU- Wins easy over UNLV
19. Oklahoma- After a tough lose to Miami (FL) look for the Sooners to bounce back and win against Baylor.
20. Ole Miss- Goes down to a tough Alabama team.
21. Nebraska- Goes up in the rankings after winning tonight against an undefeated Missouri team.
22. Georgia Tech- Goes down to Florida St
23. South Florida- Bye Week
24. Missouri- goes down in a tough one against Nebraska at home tonight
25. South Carolina- Wins a close one because they are at home.
Game of the Week- LSU vs FLorida. Best conference in college football, SEC, and two top 5 teams makes for one great Saturday night in Baton Rouge for over 100,000 people at the Tiger Stadium.
Upset of the Week- LSU beats Florida.
Games to watch Ohio St vs Wisconsin. Nebraska vs Missouri. Iowa vs Michigan.
Coach Tom
1. Florida- Finally Florida goes down to a tough opponent LSU. The game is at LSU and it is a night game. Last time Tebow went to Tiger Stadium it ended in a loss, look for the past to repeat itself this year.
2. Texas- Taking on Colorado, Texas again wins big. Colorado lost to Colorado St. and is not the same team they used to be.
3. Alabama- This week the Tide takes on the former No.5 Ole Miss in the road. This game may be closer then some think, but I think the Tide's defense is too strong and shuts down the Ole Miss offense.
4. LSU- Night game at Tiger Stadium is enough said. Simply put the Tigers do not lose at home. This game will be close but last week the Tigers proved themselves, although I believe the refs helped them win. But saying that, the Tigers win a big one at home.
5. Va Tech- At home against a Boston College team that came off a big win vs Florida St. Look for Va Tech to win a big one.
6. Boise St. Won but went down in the rankings. Bye this week
7. USC- Bye Week
8. Cincinnati- Bye Week
9. Ohio St.- The Buckeyes need to be careful this week. The Badgers are undefeated and are under the radar. This could be a game to watch for the Buckeyes to go down. Saying that I think they win close at home.
10. TCU. At Air Force and win again to move up in the rankings.
11. Miami (FL)- After a huge win against OK the Hurricanes take on Florida AM. Miami proved that they weren't a bust after all the hype and win easy this week.
12.Iowa- Continuing to improve week by week Iowa wins a big ABC Saturday Night game at home against Michigan. Forcier is a very good freshman, but has yet to prove himself for a whole game on the road this year.
13. Oregon- After a very impressive win against Cal two weeks ago and a blowout win over Washington State Oregon continues to roll over UCLA.
14. Penn St.- Takes on Eastern Illinois and wins easy.
15. Ok St.- Takes on Texas A&M on the road. Could be close but OK St. wins.
16. Kansas- At home against Iowa St, should win easy.
17. Auburn- Tough road test against a high powered offense in the Razorbacks. If Arkansas defense steps up at home there could be an upset. Arkansas wins close if the defense comes to play.
18. BYU- Wins easy over UNLV
19. Oklahoma- After a tough lose to Miami (FL) look for the Sooners to bounce back and win against Baylor.
20. Ole Miss- Goes down to a tough Alabama team.
21. Nebraska- Goes up in the rankings after winning tonight against an undefeated Missouri team.
22. Georgia Tech- Goes down to Florida St
23. South Florida- Bye Week
24. Missouri- goes down in a tough one against Nebraska at home tonight
25. South Carolina- Wins a close one because they are at home.
Game of the Week- LSU vs FLorida. Best conference in college football, SEC, and two top 5 teams makes for one great Saturday night in Baton Rouge for over 100,000 people at the Tiger Stadium.
Upset of the Week- LSU beats Florida.
Games to watch Ohio St vs Wisconsin. Nebraska vs Missouri. Iowa vs Michigan.
Coach Tom
October 6, 2009
NFL Review Week 4
Every week I review 3 games from the NFL. This week the teams are the Chicago Bears, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the New Orleans Saints.
Chicago Bears- This week the Bears took on the Detroit Lions and really impressed the fans. The game started off a bit shaky and the Lions scored on their first two drives. After those drive the Bears defense stepped up and stopped the Lions for the most part for the rest of the game. Cutler impressed again and is improving his relationship with the receivers. Knox topped the victory off with a Kickoff return for a touchdown to open up the second half. Next week the Bears have a bye week.
Pittsburgh Steelers- Steelers had a big game on Sunday night vs the San Diego Chargers because if they lost the super bowl champs would have been 1-3 to open up the year. After giving up 4th quarter leads to both the Bears and the Bengals the Steelers almost coughed up another on Sunday night. Entering the 4th quarter the Steelers had a solid lead and gave up 21 points but were able to secure the game on a late field goal. If they could play a whole game they would be 4-0 but instead they are 2-2. Next week the Steelers play the Lions next week and should be 3-2 after that.
New Orleans Saints- This week the Saints proved that they not only have a powerful offense but a very solid defense to go along with Drew Brees. They beat the prevously undefeated Jets and the defense scored as many touchdowns as the offense. The Saints look very dangerous this year if they can keep up the balance of high powered offense and a stingy defense. Next week they take on another undefeated team in the New York Giants. Look for them to sweep New York this year and continue their winning streak.
Coach Tom
Chicago Bears- This week the Bears took on the Detroit Lions and really impressed the fans. The game started off a bit shaky and the Lions scored on their first two drives. After those drive the Bears defense stepped up and stopped the Lions for the most part for the rest of the game. Cutler impressed again and is improving his relationship with the receivers. Knox topped the victory off with a Kickoff return for a touchdown to open up the second half. Next week the Bears have a bye week.
Pittsburgh Steelers- Steelers had a big game on Sunday night vs the San Diego Chargers because if they lost the super bowl champs would have been 1-3 to open up the year. After giving up 4th quarter leads to both the Bears and the Bengals the Steelers almost coughed up another on Sunday night. Entering the 4th quarter the Steelers had a solid lead and gave up 21 points but were able to secure the game on a late field goal. If they could play a whole game they would be 4-0 but instead they are 2-2. Next week the Steelers play the Lions next week and should be 3-2 after that.
New Orleans Saints- This week the Saints proved that they not only have a powerful offense but a very solid defense to go along with Drew Brees. They beat the prevously undefeated Jets and the defense scored as many touchdowns as the offense. The Saints look very dangerous this year if they can keep up the balance of high powered offense and a stingy defense. Next week they take on another undefeated team in the New York Giants. Look for them to sweep New York this year and continue their winning streak.
Coach Tom
Rockford Auburn Golf Glory
"I hate the school passionately," senior golfer Zack Bannon said of the favored Boylan team.
Disdain may well have fueled the epic victory in Tuesday's Harlem Regional.
Auburn's golf team came out on top with a team total of 320, besting Guilford's 321 and Boylan's 322.
The winning shot came off senior Sam White's lob wedge. The last Auburn shot of the day, White holed out from 80 yards.
"I thought it had a chance at going in, but i wasn't sure because the spectators around the green didn't react to it right away," White said.
The pulseless spectators were likely Boylan supports, no longer able to express real human emotion after years of Botox and soul selling.
The shot was White's only eagle of the day.
While White may have capped the back 9 comeback, Harlem led through the front 9, Bannon led the surge.
His 35 on the back 9 was best by 3 strokes. With a round of 75, he finished second overall and outshot his Boylan counterpart, Elliot Horst, by 12. Horst is notorious in the Rockford golf community for being booted from last years team on charges of trading strokes. Not very Boylanesque, huh? Oh, wait...
Up next for the illustrious Auburn squad is sectionals in Lake Forest on Monday.
TBG
Disdain may well have fueled the epic victory in Tuesday's Harlem Regional.
Auburn's golf team came out on top with a team total of 320, besting Guilford's 321 and Boylan's 322.
The winning shot came off senior Sam White's lob wedge. The last Auburn shot of the day, White holed out from 80 yards.
"I thought it had a chance at going in, but i wasn't sure because the spectators around the green didn't react to it right away," White said.
The pulseless spectators were likely Boylan supports, no longer able to express real human emotion after years of Botox and soul selling.
The shot was White's only eagle of the day.
While White may have capped the back 9 comeback, Harlem led through the front 9, Bannon led the surge.
His 35 on the back 9 was best by 3 strokes. With a round of 75, he finished second overall and outshot his Boylan counterpart, Elliot Horst, by 12. Horst is notorious in the Rockford golf community for being booted from last years team on charges of trading strokes. Not very Boylanesque, huh? Oh, wait...
Up next for the illustrious Auburn squad is sectionals in Lake Forest on Monday.
TBG
VICTORY!
TBG here to let it be known he called the Twins epic comeback. 3 games back with 4 to play. 7 games back in September. What a comeback!
TBG
TBG
NFL Week In Review
Vikins 30- Packers 23
On a positive note, it was a 7 point game. And like veterans Charles Woodson and Donald Driver said pregame, Aaron Rodgers may very well be the best QB in the game when he gets time. Now that that's out of the way let's look at this game for what it was.
1. The Packers are holding an open tryout for +300 lb. men in the greater Green Bay area. 8 sacks? Really? Packers left tackle Daryn Colledge was a broken record that Vikings defensive end Jared Allen abused all night. Allen continually speed rushed right past Colledge on his way to a 4.5 sack night. Colledge will be foreknown as the Window Shopper on this blog (just looking, not touching). The overweight T-Rex, a lineman formerly known as Allen Barbre, continued to look generally confused about the rules of football as he too struggled against the Vikings front. Let's take a look back at the breakout games pass rushers have had against the Pack's line:
Week 1 Adewale Ogunleye- 2 of the Bears 4 sacks
Week 2 Antwan Odom- 5 of the Bengals 6 sacks
Week 3- Leonard Little- both of the Rams sacks (only 2 sacks allowed!)
Week 4- Jared Allen- 4.5 of the Vikings 8 sacks (had to keep the 5 sacks a game average!)
I think it is safe to say the Packers O-line can be known collectively as the Contract Boosters. Every D-line with them on their schedule has that game circled with a message something like this underneath: "Call agent. Start contract renegotiation.)
But I digress.
What about the defensive game plan from Dom Capers. The aggressive attack was nowhere to be found. The Packers rarely blitzed Favre as they seemed soley focused on bottling up Peterson. Did they really think Favre couldn't win a game on his own anymore? Come on. Brett consistently hit his receivers in the Mack Truck hole between the linebackers seemingly paralyzed by every move Peterson made and the secondary playing too deep. Favre was hit only once the entire game. Meanwhile the Vikings recorded 9 QB hits. Pressure breaks pipes. Aaron Kampman dropping into hook zones doesn't.
The Vikings look to be on the level of the Ravens, Pats, Colts, Saints, Giants and, yes, the Broncos. With a healthy Favre they feature a balanced attack that leaves you damned if you do and damned if you don't make Peterson your D's number one focus. Look for the Week 6 match with Baltimore to be on the same level as this weeks game at Foxboro.
Broncos 17- Cowboys 10
Well, this blogger was wrong. On both sides of this game. It's not that the Cowboys can't stay out of their own way. Their way just isn't that good. TBG does not buy that Tony Romo is completely overrated, but he needs better weapons. It might also help to never challenge the best corner back in the league again. This team is bound for a third place finish in ESPN's favorite division.
Meanwhile, the Broncos D is for real. A TBG favorite for years, Brian Dawkins, along with this generation's Neon Deion, Champ Bailey and sackmaster Elvis Dumervil (8 already) lead a defense stricter than an Evangelical mother. Kyle (no longer The Neck) Orton is yet to throw a pick and has brought the same nothing-too-exciting game he had in Chicago to Denver. When he has a great defense he has shown he can be a Super Bowl quarterback. Still, TBG is only 75% sold on Brons. Next weeks New England showdown will be telling...
Bengals 23- Browns 20
The Bengals are one Bunglesque play away from being 4-0. While a 74:56 victory over the Browns is not impressive, a win is a win in the NFL. The Orange and Black defense brings the pain with TBG fav Rey Maualuga and Horse Collar Williams. Perhaps the Bengals were looking ahead to next week's game in Baltimore. Their performance there will stamp them as contenders or pretenders.
Notes:
The Twins and Tigers are just now kicking off their division determining tie-break. A certain blogger picked the Twins to catch the Tigers over a week ago.
TBG went 11-3 on his Week 4 NFL picks, moving him to 43-19 on the season.
TBG
On a positive note, it was a 7 point game. And like veterans Charles Woodson and Donald Driver said pregame, Aaron Rodgers may very well be the best QB in the game when he gets time. Now that that's out of the way let's look at this game for what it was.
1. The Packers are holding an open tryout for +300 lb. men in the greater Green Bay area. 8 sacks? Really? Packers left tackle Daryn Colledge was a broken record that Vikings defensive end Jared Allen abused all night. Allen continually speed rushed right past Colledge on his way to a 4.5 sack night. Colledge will be foreknown as the Window Shopper on this blog (just looking, not touching). The overweight T-Rex, a lineman formerly known as Allen Barbre, continued to look generally confused about the rules of football as he too struggled against the Vikings front. Let's take a look back at the breakout games pass rushers have had against the Pack's line:
Week 1 Adewale Ogunleye- 2 of the Bears 4 sacks
Week 2 Antwan Odom- 5 of the Bengals 6 sacks
Week 3- Leonard Little- both of the Rams sacks (only 2 sacks allowed!)
Week 4- Jared Allen- 4.5 of the Vikings 8 sacks (had to keep the 5 sacks a game average!)
I think it is safe to say the Packers O-line can be known collectively as the Contract Boosters. Every D-line with them on their schedule has that game circled with a message something like this underneath: "Call agent. Start contract renegotiation.)
But I digress.
What about the defensive game plan from Dom Capers. The aggressive attack was nowhere to be found. The Packers rarely blitzed Favre as they seemed soley focused on bottling up Peterson. Did they really think Favre couldn't win a game on his own anymore? Come on. Brett consistently hit his receivers in the Mack Truck hole between the linebackers seemingly paralyzed by every move Peterson made and the secondary playing too deep. Favre was hit only once the entire game. Meanwhile the Vikings recorded 9 QB hits. Pressure breaks pipes. Aaron Kampman dropping into hook zones doesn't.
The Vikings look to be on the level of the Ravens, Pats, Colts, Saints, Giants and, yes, the Broncos. With a healthy Favre they feature a balanced attack that leaves you damned if you do and damned if you don't make Peterson your D's number one focus. Look for the Week 6 match with Baltimore to be on the same level as this weeks game at Foxboro.
Broncos 17- Cowboys 10
Well, this blogger was wrong. On both sides of this game. It's not that the Cowboys can't stay out of their own way. Their way just isn't that good. TBG does not buy that Tony Romo is completely overrated, but he needs better weapons. It might also help to never challenge the best corner back in the league again. This team is bound for a third place finish in ESPN's favorite division.
Meanwhile, the Broncos D is for real. A TBG favorite for years, Brian Dawkins, along with this generation's Neon Deion, Champ Bailey and sackmaster Elvis Dumervil (8 already) lead a defense stricter than an Evangelical mother. Kyle (no longer The Neck) Orton is yet to throw a pick and has brought the same nothing-too-exciting game he had in Chicago to Denver. When he has a great defense he has shown he can be a Super Bowl quarterback. Still, TBG is only 75% sold on Brons. Next weeks New England showdown will be telling...
Bengals 23- Browns 20
The Bengals are one Bunglesque play away from being 4-0. While a 74:56 victory over the Browns is not impressive, a win is a win in the NFL. The Orange and Black defense brings the pain with TBG fav Rey Maualuga and Horse Collar Williams. Perhaps the Bengals were looking ahead to next week's game in Baltimore. Their performance there will stamp them as contenders or pretenders.
Notes:
The Twins and Tigers are just now kicking off their division determining tie-break. A certain blogger picked the Twins to catch the Tigers over a week ago.
TBG went 11-3 on his Week 4 NFL picks, moving him to 43-19 on the season.
TBG
October 5, 2009
Ref's Take Emotion Out of the Game.
Over the past couple years the refs of college football have really cracked down on the celebrating and the taunting of players when making a big play or scoring a touchdown, but in the LSU vs Georgia on Saturday it was clear that the refs have taken it too far. The first penalty for excessive celebration was against Georgia after the first play of the second half. Georgia was held to 1 first down and only have 5 drives in the first half. So after a huge gain on the opening drive of the second half a Georgia receiver got up after making a catch and looked to the fans and tried to get them into the game. He was then penalized for excessive celebration stalling the drive. The biggest call was after Green had a game leading touchdown catch late in the 4th quarter. After he scored he put the ball down and then went to celebrate with his linemen, which everyone does after a touchdown. The refs then threw a flag on Green for excessive celebration, costing the team 15 yards on the kickoff and ultimately costing them the game. On LSU's next drive they only needed a field goal to win, but Scott broke off a run to the end zone clinching a tough win. After scoring Scott put the ball down and pounded his chest and pointed to the sky. Scott was then penalized for excessive celebration.
I understand people do not want to see players going out of control with celebrating, but in a tough SEC match up there is going to be a lot of emotion and I did not see anything wrong with any of the 3 players celebrations. If a player is not aloud to get the fans involved with the game or celebrate with your teammates, then the best thing about college football is being taken out of the game, emotion. Let the players play and let them so some emotion
Coach Tom
I understand people do not want to see players going out of control with celebrating, but in a tough SEC match up there is going to be a lot of emotion and I did not see anything wrong with any of the 3 players celebrations. If a player is not aloud to get the fans involved with the game or celebrate with your teammates, then the best thing about college football is being taken out of the game, emotion. Let the players play and let them so some emotion
Coach Tom
October 4, 2009
Beastmode of the Week
CT&TBG are unveiling what will be a weekly sports award. Inspired by the attached Marshawn Lynch legendary contribution to sports culture, every week we will name one athlete the Beastmode of the Week. CT&TBG will search far and wide for the most dominant, ferocious sports performance. The proud winner of the first illustrious Beastmode of the Week? Clemson running back C.J. Spiller! Down 11 with 4:27 left ot play Spiller decided he didn't feel like losing. Scoring on a 92-yard kick return, Spiller engaged 3 Maryland defenders and ripped through them all for the score. Not to mention he did it with one shoe! While his team could not back up his Beastmode, losing 24-21, his run will be remembered forever with this honor. While the video is yet to be put up on youtube, look for it to be added to CT&TBG shortly. Meanwhile, enjoy the inspiration below...he used to go STUPID in Madden!!!!
October 3, 2009
NFL Picks
Ravens over Pats- Brady and his receivers have not been able to get on the same page. The expected return of Wes Welker will help. But the Ravens are locked in on every level this year. Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and company will throw as many looks as they can at the Pats offense. Look for Flacco to outshine Brady as the Pats drop their first home game in 17 games.
Redskins over Bucs
Titans over Jags
Texans over Raiders
Bears over Lions
Bengals over Browns
Colts over Seahawks
Giants over Chiefs
Saints over Jets- Defense wins championships. But rookie QBs don't. Mark Sanchez has impressed this blogger but expect him to be slightly rattled in a raucous New Orleans Superdome. The Saints are tied for the league lead with 9 takeaways and will win the turnover battle. Drew Brees is the leader of a prolific offense but look for Pierre Thomas to make a difference on the ground. The 8-point line favoring the Saints is a little heavy but look for the Saints to win the battle of 3-0s.
Dolphins over Bills
Cowboys over Broncos- The Broncos face their first big boy test of the season and get housed by Romo. As long as the Cowboys can stay out of their own way, 9 penalties for 80 yards last week, they will roll.
49ers over Rams
Steelers over Bolts- The defending champs are 1-2?!? After a slim 13-10 victory over the Titans in Week 1, the Steelers have dropped back to back games at the hands of the Bears and Bengals. Look for the Steelers to make the Chargers a one dimensional offensive attack. Big Ben throws 3 TDs and the Steelers get a much needed victory. With the Lions and Browns the next 2 weeks, the Steelers will be 4-2 coming into a Week 7 match with the Vikings.
Vikings over Packers- I can't believe I just typed that. But reality trumps affiliation when picking games. It'll be a long day for Ryan Grant and Aaron Rodgers. The Viks D line will dominate the Packs weak O line. But look for the Packers D to force a pair of Fave picks, they lead the league in interceptions with 7. The picks will help ease the pain, but Favre makes Packers fans wish he was still wearing Green and Gold.
TBG
Redskins over Bucs
Titans over Jags
Texans over Raiders
Bears over Lions
Bengals over Browns
Colts over Seahawks
Giants over Chiefs
Saints over Jets- Defense wins championships. But rookie QBs don't. Mark Sanchez has impressed this blogger but expect him to be slightly rattled in a raucous New Orleans Superdome. The Saints are tied for the league lead with 9 takeaways and will win the turnover battle. Drew Brees is the leader of a prolific offense but look for Pierre Thomas to make a difference on the ground. The 8-point line favoring the Saints is a little heavy but look for the Saints to win the battle of 3-0s.
Dolphins over Bills
Cowboys over Broncos- The Broncos face their first big boy test of the season and get housed by Romo. As long as the Cowboys can stay out of their own way, 9 penalties for 80 yards last week, they will roll.
49ers over Rams
Steelers over Bolts- The defending champs are 1-2?!? After a slim 13-10 victory over the Titans in Week 1, the Steelers have dropped back to back games at the hands of the Bears and Bengals. Look for the Steelers to make the Chargers a one dimensional offensive attack. Big Ben throws 3 TDs and the Steelers get a much needed victory. With the Lions and Browns the next 2 weeks, the Steelers will be 4-2 coming into a Week 7 match with the Vikings.
Vikings over Packers- I can't believe I just typed that. But reality trumps affiliation when picking games. It'll be a long day for Ryan Grant and Aaron Rodgers. The Viks D line will dominate the Packs weak O line. But look for the Packers D to force a pair of Fave picks, they lead the league in interceptions with 7. The picks will help ease the pain, but Favre makes Packers fans wish he was still wearing Green and Gold.
TBG
October 1, 2009
The orchestra or conductor?
Draft gurus will be watching Saturday's match up between Miami and Oklahoma for many reasons. However, the most interesting theme may be Sam Bradford's absence. A potential number one overall pick after last season, Bradford chose to return for another year of college. While he was only a sophomore at the time, it made sense that he wanted to spend another year honing his skills on the lower level. Plus, college is great (especially when your Big Man on Campus, although this journalist wouldn't quite know about that). But the argument of "Why go back when you know your draft stock can never get better" came up big when he went down with a shoulder injury in the very first game. While Bradford has been off visiting sports injury God Dr. James Andrews freshman QB Landry Jones has been running the ship. And doing it well, throwing for 9 TDs and leading Oklahoma to two blowout victories. However, the talent around Jones may be shinning while their light is only illuminating him. Jones is completing his passes at a 60.5% rate. That is coming against two cupcakes with Tulsa and Idaho State frosting. When filling in for Bradford in Oklahoma's season opening loss, Jones went 6-12 for 51 yds. Not every Bradfordesque. Bradford consistently torches defenses like Tulsa for 75% completion ratings and was 10-14 with a TD before he went down in the BYU game. Jones is no Bradford. Not yet atleast. Look for Jones to look jittery in his first career road game against a defense facing it's fourth consecutive ranked offense. Miami 17 Oklahoma 10.
Award Finalists in MLB
As another great year in baseball comes to end and the playoffs just a week away its time to find out who the awards are going to go to. From MVP to rookie of the year its time for me to let you know who should win the awards.
NL
MVP- Albert Pujols- With a .328 Batting Average, 47 homeruns, 134 RBI's, .445 on base percentage, and .663 slugging percentage Albert Pujols is an easy win for the MVP this year.
Cy Young- Chris Carpenter- With a 17-4 record, 2.24 ERA, 144 in Strikeouts, and a WHIP of 1.01 Chris wins a close race with his teammate Adam Wainwright and Tim Linecum
Rookie of the Year- J.A. Happ- 12-4, 2.85 ERA, 118 Strikeouts, and a 1.22 WHIP Happ has helped the Phillies win another NL East title. He has a bright future ahead of him in the MLB.
AL
MVP- Whats wrong with Derek Jeter. At age 35 he's got a .335 average, 18 homeruns, only 66 RBI's but he bats in the 2 hole, .407 on base percentage,and a .467 slugging percentage. With a year that has no outstanding MVP candidate I give it the Jeter, the best player of our generation.
Cy Young- Hands down Zack Greinke. With a staggering 2.06 ERA, 16-8 on a team with a record of 64-92, 237 strikouts, and a WHIP{of 1.07 Greinke wins the Cy Young. Greinke has allowed 1 run or fewer in 17 of his 32 starts and deserves to win the Cy Young.
Rookie of the Year- Elvis Andrus. At the age of 21 he has a .268 Batting average, 6 homeruns, 37 RBI's, .329 on base percentage, .372 slugging percentage, but that's not the most impressive. As a rookie he is a Gold Glove caliber shortstop. He will win many in his career.
NL
MVP- Albert Pujols- With a .328 Batting Average, 47 homeruns, 134 RBI's, .445 on base percentage, and .663 slugging percentage Albert Pujols is an easy win for the MVP this year.
Cy Young- Chris Carpenter- With a 17-4 record, 2.24 ERA, 144 in Strikeouts, and a WHIP of 1.01 Chris wins a close race with his teammate Adam Wainwright and Tim Linecum
Rookie of the Year- J.A. Happ- 12-4, 2.85 ERA, 118 Strikeouts, and a 1.22 WHIP Happ has helped the Phillies win another NL East title. He has a bright future ahead of him in the MLB.
AL
MVP- Whats wrong with Derek Jeter. At age 35 he's got a .335 average, 18 homeruns, only 66 RBI's but he bats in the 2 hole, .407 on base percentage,and a .467 slugging percentage. With a year that has no outstanding MVP candidate I give it the Jeter, the best player of our generation.
Cy Young- Hands down Zack Greinke. With a staggering 2.06 ERA, 16-8 on a team with a record of 64-92, 237 strikouts, and a WHIP{of 1.07 Greinke wins the Cy Young. Greinke has allowed 1 run or fewer in 17 of his 32 starts and deserves to win the Cy Young.
Rookie of the Year- Elvis Andrus. At the age of 21 he has a .268 Batting average, 6 homeruns, 37 RBI's, .329 on base percentage, .372 slugging percentage, but that's not the most impressive. As a rookie he is a Gold Glove caliber shortstop. He will win many in his career.
In eager anticipation...
The world’s best swimmer and the world’s fastest man. Both put on amazing displays in last year’s Olympics. Not to be left in the respective wake and dust of Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt, the Chinese and U.S. women’s gymnastics team competed in a fierce and controversial battle. From the jaw dropping opening featuring over 15,000 performers to the architecturally stunning and aesthetically pleasing Bird’s Nest venue, the Beijing Olympics were memorable throughout.
However, the most interesting impact of the Olympic Games, beyond the athletics and grandiosity is the cultural impact.
Always a symbol of unity and respectful competition, the Olympic Games transcend nearly all of the world’s social obstacles in the name of shared human experience. While the Olympics do not always leave out politics, when that does come up it is usually empowering. Participating in track in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, African-American Jesse Owens won four gold medals, trumping Adolf Hitler’s attempt to glorify the Aryan race throughout the games. After respectively winning gold and bronze in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics 200 meter dash, Tommie Smith and John Carlos performed a Power to the People salute. The image still remains prominent in today’s culture.
At a time when our nation is trying to change its global reputation, holding the 2016 Olympics could put a great cap on the end of a possible second Obama term. Perhaps President Obama is thinking ahead with his last minute Thursday trip to Copenhagen in an effort to convince the International Olympic Committee to accept the Chicago big. The United States is too often viewed as the big bully on the world playground. After Obama’s first United Nations address on September 23, many critics noted the vast difference between his approach toward the world’s leaders and former President Bush’s. If all goes well in the Obama camp maybe the world can celebrate the changes he made in his hometown in his last year as president.
However, the most interesting impact of the Olympic Games, beyond the athletics and grandiosity is the cultural impact.
Always a symbol of unity and respectful competition, the Olympic Games transcend nearly all of the world’s social obstacles in the name of shared human experience. While the Olympics do not always leave out politics, when that does come up it is usually empowering. Participating in track in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, African-American Jesse Owens won four gold medals, trumping Adolf Hitler’s attempt to glorify the Aryan race throughout the games. After respectively winning gold and bronze in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics 200 meter dash, Tommie Smith and John Carlos performed a Power to the People salute. The image still remains prominent in today’s culture.
At a time when our nation is trying to change its global reputation, holding the 2016 Olympics could put a great cap on the end of a possible second Obama term. Perhaps President Obama is thinking ahead with his last minute Thursday trip to Copenhagen in an effort to convince the International Olympic Committee to accept the Chicago big. The United States is too often viewed as the big bully on the world playground. After Obama’s first United Nations address on September 23, many critics noted the vast difference between his approach toward the world’s leaders and former President Bush’s. If all goes well in the Obama camp maybe the world can celebrate the changes he made in his hometown in his last year as president.
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