Week 16

2-5 week, 49-53, how pathetic, I am better than this. Tis the season, so I will pick all 16 games this week and hopefully turn things around.

1. Chargers 2.5 dogs @ Titans. I can't see how you can pick against the Chargers, 9 game winning streak and unstoppable in December.

2. Falcons 8.5 favs against Bills.

3. Bengals 13.5 favs against Chiefs.

4. Browns 3.5 favs against Raiders.

5. Packers 13.5 favs against Seahawks

6. Steelers 2.5 favs against Ravens

7. Texans 3.5 dogs @ Dolphins. Dolphins never beat the Texans and Texans are on their way to another 500 season

8. Patriots 8.5 favs against Jags

9. Bucs 14.5 dogs @ Saints. Saints aren't playing for undefeated season.

10. Giants 6.5 favs against Panthers

11. Cards 13.5 favs against Rams

12. 49ers 11.5 favs against Lions

13. Eagles 7.5 favs against Broncos

14. Colts 5.5 favs against Jets

15. Redskins 6.5 dogs against Cowboys

16. Upset Special Bears 7.5 dogs against Vikings. What will the Diva do for an encore?

Chilly and the Diva

I knew it would happen, the Diva is at it again. This time when coach Chilly requested The Diva come out to protect him from getting hit around by the Panthers Defense, The Diva cried like the baby he is. I am glad he is putting the pin in the Vikings balloon. Hear me know, The Vikings lose their first playoff game and the Diva calls for Chilly's job

Week 15

47-48 after a 5-3 week.

1. Titans 3.5 favs over the Dolphins.

2. Saints 7.5 favs over the Cowboys

3. Colts 7.5 favs @ Jags

4. Chiefs 2.5 favs over Browns

5. Falcons 6.5 dogs @ Jets

6. Packers .5 dogs @ Steelers

Upset 7. Bengals 6.5 dogs @ Chargers

Week 14

I am 42-45, time is running out for me to show I know what I am talking about.

1. Bucs 3.5 dogs against Jets

2. Ravens 13.5 favorites against Lions

3. Steelers 9.5 favorites @ Browns

4. Chargers 3.5 dogs @ Cowboys

5. Eagles .5 @ Giants

6. Dolphins 2.5 dogs @ Jaguars

7. Upset Special 1 Bengals 6.5 dogs @ Vikings

8. Upset Special 2 49ers 4.5 dogs against Cardinals

T For Temple U

For the first time in 30 years, The Temple University Owls will be playing in a Bowl Game. After a 9-3 season, they were selected to play in the Eagle Bank Bowl in Washington DC on Tuesday December 29th. The funny thing is, they don't even know who the opponent is yet. If Army beats Navy, Army gets the nod. If Army loses, they will play UCLA.

During my Sophomore Season, Temple completed their last winning season, 7-4, but lost out to a Liberty Bowl Bid to the University of Maryland. 19 years later, Temple has finally done it. I am sure Coach Al Golden will be considered for top jobs, let's face it, it isn't easy to build a winner on North Broad Street. Many have tried and most of failed. Let's just hope he can continue the this trend for a long time to come.

I am very disappointed at the BCS. Imagine that, me hating on the BCS. I would have loved to see TCU get a shot at the National Championship. At the very least, a shot at the Florida Gators, instead they will play a 5th rated Bowl game against Boise State. Way to go BCS, you proven you can suck even more than you do.

Week 13

What a lousy week, 6-10, bringing my season to 38 - 42.
Here are my weeks picks:

1. Jets 3.5 favorites @ Bills

2. Bucs 6.5 dogs @ Panthers

3. Steelers 11.5 favorites against Raiders

4. Giants 1.5 dogs against Cowboys. This is the Giants Season

5. Jags .5 against the Texans

6. Upset Special Titans 6.5 dogs @ Indy

7. Bonus Upset Rams 8.5 dogs @ Bears

Week 12

Last week, I went 4-3, evening up this season 32-32. I am picking all the games this week:
1. Packers 10.5 favorites @ Detroit
2. Giants 6.5 favorites @ Broncos
3. Falcons 11.5 favorites against Bucss
4. Bills 3.5 dogs against Dolphins
5. Bengals 13.5 favorites against Browns
6. Rams 2.5 dogs against Seahawks
7. Panthers 3.5 dogs @ Jets
8. Eagles 9.5 favorites against Redskins
9. Colts 3.5 favorites @ Texans
10. Chargers 10.5 favorites against Chiefs
11. Jags 3.5 dogs @ 49ers
12. Cards .5 dogs @ Titans
13. Vikings 10.5 favorites against Bears
14. Ravens 2.5 against Steelers
15. Patriots 3.5 dogs @ Saints
Upset 16. Raiders 13.5 Dogs @ Cowboys

Coaching Blah's

I really hate how people make such a big deal about coaching and their ability to win games. The truth is this, Coaches loss games, they rarely win them. I don't care who the coach is, more talent is going to win over less talent. Jay Cutler stinks, but his coach Lovie Smith is on the hotseat. Andy Reid is often criticized for his coaching, but he's not on the field making plays.

I do dislike the coach who thinks he is better than he actually is. A College Coach's job is to recruit the best players he can. I am convinced this is why Bobby Bowden has been at FSU for so long.

Finally, if you are going to be a fat coach, you better win consistently or you will be out. The world is prejudice against Fat People and it's not any better for Fat Coaches. Charlie Weis had 5 years to make Notre Dame matter again and he failed, not because he couldn't coach, but because the best players were going to Florida & USC. Mark Mangino being a tough coach won't get him fired, but a losing season in Kansas will.

Week 11

5-2 week last week, bringing the total to 27-28. Here are my week 11 picks

1. Lions 3.5 favorites over the Browns

2. Steelers 9.5 favorites over the Chiefs

3. Colts .5 dogs @ Ravens

4. Bengals 10.5 favorites over the Raiders

5. Patriots 10.5 favorites over the Jets. I Feel Bad for the Jets, The Pats will go for it on every 4th down and make it

6. Chargers 2.5 favorites over the @ Broncos

7. Upset Special Bills 8.5 dogs @ Jacksonville

Week 10

I am 22-26 and I am kind of disappointed in myself. I am going to pick 7 games this week and I am going to pick all of the games during Thanksgiving Weekend.

1. 49ers 3.5 favorites over the Bears. Actually, I have no idea what Bears Team will show up. I honestly thought the Bears would be the top top team in their Division.

2. Saints 13.5 favorites over the Rams

3. Titans 6.5 Favorites over the Bills

4. Bengals 6.5 Dogs @ the Steelers

5. Chiefs 1.5 Dogs @ Raiders

6. Patriots 2.5 Dogs @ Colts

Upset 7. Bucs 9.5 Dogs @ Dolphins

Week 9

We are halfway through the Season and I have to up my game. I am 20-22, not what I thought I would be, but not too far off.
Here are my picks:
1. Houston 9.5 dogs @ Indy. I am riding Houston as long as I can. I really think they are the surprise team this season, but with the injury to Owen Daniels, someone else has to step up.

2. Ravens 2.5 favs @ Cincinnati. I am still not sold on the Bengals as a legit contender, The Ravens played well last week against Denver, I see this trend continuing.

3. Patriots 10.5 over Dolphins. The Pats will be ready for the Wildcat, Tom Brady will pick apart the Dolphins Secondary. Chad Henne hasn't shown he is the QB of the future.

4. 49ers 4.5 point favs over the Titans. Vince Young found his groove and Chris Johnson is amazing, but I like San Fran at home this week

5. Giants 4.5 fav against the Chargers. The Giants find their winning ways again. I don't trust the Chargers this season, I think they are a mess.

6. Upset Special Panthers 14.5 dogs @ New Orleans. Panthers played well last week, when Jake Delhomme manages the game, he gives the Panthers a chance to win. My Advice, let D'Angelo and Jonathon run and make sure Steve Smith touched the ball at least a dozen times.

Week 8

After a 4-2 week, I am batting .500 18-18 for the season, so here are my Week 8 Picks:

1. Texans 3.5 favorites @ Buffalo. I am going to ride the Texans as long as I can. I think they have all the tools to be a great team, they just haven't put it together yet.

2. Browns 13.5 underdogs @ Chicago. I usually don't like picking Road Teams, especially ones as bad as Cleveland, but Chicago looks like they quit, much like Tennessee and Cleveland can play them tough. I think the Bears win a shootout, but it's a close shootout.

3. Broncos 3.5 underdogs @ Baltimore. Both teams coming off Bye Weeks, so there goes my theory, teams have an extra week to study their next opponent. I think Baltimore is going through some growing pains and every week I picked against the Broncos they have burned me. I really don't think the Broncos are this good, but they keep proving me wrong.

4. Jacksonville 2.5 underdogs @ 0-6 Tennessee with Vince Young Starting. The Titans have already given up on their coach, what makes anyone thing they will try to win for Vince Young?

5. Packers 3.5 favorites against the Vikings and the Diva. I think this is going to be a blow out

6. Upset Special 49ers 12.5 underdogs @ Colts. Alex Smith is getting a second chance and Michael Crabtree will emerge as a top flight Receiver. I think they shock the World.

Week 7

Last Week, I was 2-4, bringing me to 14 - 16.

1. Colts 13.5 favorites @ Rams. Colts coming off a bye week in St Louis against the 0-6 Rams.

2. Packers 8.5 favorites @ Browns. The Browns are pretty bad, Green Bay is pretty good.

3. Steelers 4.5 favorites vs Vikings. I still don't think the Vikings are as good as their record.

4. Philadelphia 7.5 favorites @ Redskins. This is probably a sucker game. The Redskins are imploding and the Eagles coming off a miserable outing against the The Raiders. All signs point to the Eagles Destroying the Redskins.

5. Falcons 4.5 dogs @ Dallas. Dallas has looked mediocre at best, Falcons are the real deal

Upset Special
6. Dolphins 6.5 dogs vs the Saints. I think this is a let down game for the Saints. They have played so well, coming into South Florida against well rested Dolphin team. I think the Defense will get to Brees

I don't know why I am picking so many road teams with big spreads, I think there is a real division between the good teams and everyone else.

Thank You Eagles

Yesterday, was the first Sunday I was able to spend with my wife and baby girl. The last 3 Sundays were spent at Boca Community Hospital. All I wanted was a nice relaxing Sunday Afternoon, sitting next to my 2 girls and watching the Eagles. The Eagles had to ruin everything by losing to the Oakland Raiders. They should be ashamed of themselves. This loss better light a fire under them and they better go on a multi-game winning streak. You can't lose to the Raiders, you just can't!

If I am the Washington Redskins, I would fire Jim Zorn now. He's a lame duck coach who won't make it past the bye week. The team is in shambles and they have no direction. If ever you liked Jim Zorn, fire him and give him the rest of the season to get his stuff together for a job next season. Also, Jason Campbell is a nice back up, but he's not your guy. You knew this for years, but did nothing about it. Now, there is a chance to get a QB who can eventually lead this team to respectability, Brady Quinn.

Quinn is stuck in Cleveland, where they do not want him and he doesn't want to be. Trade him to Washington, let him play. The Defense is there, the Offense can be decent, they have lousy management and considering Daniel Snyder isn't selling the team and he always wants to make a splash, Brady Quinn is this splash.

TO to Chicago. I know this will not happen, but if I am Chicago, I would make it happen. You are behind the 8 ball and on the verge of not making the playoffs by week 7. You were bold to trade for Jay Cutler, now be bolder and bring in the I ME guy. Yes, he will destroy the locker room and yes he is a shell of what he use to be, but he will bring his clown and pony act in and take all of the spotlight off everyone else.

I Love Jeff Fisher, he is probably my favorite or second favorite coach in the NFL, but he lost his team. No professional team should lose 59-0, EVER. If I am Jeff Fisher, I think I would step down, you are better than this and do not deserve to be bismerched.

Is there a better 500 team than Houston? Pencil them in at 8-8 again.

Will Eric Mangini make it to year 2 in Cleveland?

Mark Sanchez looks awful.

Baltimore Kicker should be embarrassed, but Seattle should be more. So much for the 12th man?

I don't like Todd Haley as a head coach, but I think he might be the right guy for the rebuilding of KC. They are still a few years away, but they will be there soon.

Is New Orleans that good?

week 6

so, I am right where I thought I would be, .500. 12-12. Here are my picks for Week 6

1. Houston 4.5 dogs @ Cincinnati. Houston has been the most unpredictable team this year. One game they are on, the next they are asleep. Someone once said, I would rather be lucky than good and that's what the Bengals have been so far this season. But, the Bengals do have a healthy Carson Palmer, a motivated Cedric Benson and an ultra talented Chad Ochosinco. Houston looks like they will be 8-8 again this season, so considering they are 2-3 now, I will pick them to even their record up.

2. Giants 3.5 dogs @ New Orleans. Giants haven't beaten a good team this year so far and New Orleans only beat the Eagles, but that was without McNabb and a couple calls that went the other way. I think Eli Manning is on the cusp of greatness.

3. Seahawks 2.5 favorites vs Cardinals. Seattle is a tough place to win with Hasselbeck back

4. Bears 3.5 dogs @ Atlanta

5. Broncos 4.5 dogs @ San Diego

6. Upset Special - Tampa wins their first game, they are 3.5 dogs at Home vs Carolina.

The first coaching casuality - Jim Zorn, by week 8

Week 4

Sorry I missed Week 3, I'll do my best not to miss anymore weeks.
I currently am 8-10, but I have hit on all three of my upset specials.
Here goes this week's picks:

1. Eagles 13.5 over the Bucs. Andy Reid has lost 1 or 2 games after a bye week, Donovan McNabb coming back after injury.

2. Panthers 3.5 over Skins. Redskins are really bad this year. Jim Zorn is a lame duck coach.

3. Seahawks .5 over Jags. In Seattle and Hasselbeck is back.

4. Patriots 3.5 at Broncos. Teacher knows more than Student, plus has more talent.

5. Dolphins 1.5 dogs at home against the Jets. Henne doesn't have to win the game, he just can't lose it. Sanchez had his cage rattle last week, lets see how he responds in this hostile environment.

6. UPSET SPECIAL Titans 3.5 dogs at home against the Colts. Yes the Colts are playing great and Tennessee is 0-4, but it's a rivalry game and Titans will be up for it and shock the Colts

Sofia Drew

It's been over two weeks since I last posted and I even missed my last football picks (I kicked butt by the way, I swear I did.) I have a good reason, On Wednesday Night, September 23, 2009 @ 9:41pm EST, We welcomed to the world Sofia Drew. It was a long process for Sofia to be conceived and my wife's pregnancy seemed even longer, but finally she is here.

I never thought I could be so in such awe of something so small and precious, but I am. She is such an amazing person, even at 2 weeks, I am more amazed each day.

Of course, it wouldn't be right if Sofia didn't have a little adventure in her life, spending 3 of her first 5 days in NICU and 5 more days since without her mommy, but we are one happy family and now I understand what parents mean when they say how their child is so perfect.

Week 3

I know it's a little early for my picks, but I wanted to do them incase something big happened and I couldn't later this week.

1. Tennessee 2.5 dogs @ NY Jets. Jets have played well and are 2-0, The Titans have played well and are 0-2. The Law of averages here, Titans win.

2. Houston 3.5 favorites @ Jacksonville.

3. Bills 5.5 dogs against the Saints.

4. Raiders 1.5 favorites against Denver.

5. Colts 1.5 dogs @ Arizona.

6. Upset Special - Detroit 6.5 dogs against Redskins. Detroit will finally win a game!

The World is getting back...

After an awful first week, picking games and fantasy, things have come back to normal in week 2.
I went 4-2 in week 2, hitting my upset special again in week 2. So for those keeping score at home, after 2 weeks, I am 6-6.

Here are a few things:
1. Tom Brady is still a few more weeks/several weeks away from being back to where he should be, If he can tread water, they will make a run.

2. Houston has some serious Offensive Power, but their Defense needs to step it up.

3. Dallas plays with no urgency and makes too many mistakes.

4. Cleveland is on the Clock.

5. John Fox, Jack Del Rio and Wade Phillips should have their resumes ready.

6. San Diego always starts off slow, no need to worry.

7. Seattle & Philadelphia are two different teams without Hasselbeck & McNabb.

8. Eli is as good as Peyton is, with less talent.

9. I like Marvin Lewis, he deserves better than the last few years.

10. Seeing Jerry Jones' at the end of the Cowboy Stadium Opener, PRICELESS!

Week 2

I didn't do so well last week, 2-4, but I am not giving up. So here we go...
1. Carolina (0-1) 6.5 underdogs @ Atlanta (1-0) Carolina can't be that bad, can they? Actually, Jake Delhomme can't be that bad?
2. Jacksonville (0-1) 3.5 favorites vs Arizona (0-1) I am picking against Arizona again this week, I think they will have a case of Super Bowl Runner-upitis.
3. Buffalo (0-1) 3.5 favs over Tampa (0-1) Tampa stayed with Dallas last week for a half, but when push came to shove, Tampa got shoved. Buffalo has to bounce back after a game they should have won.
4. Denver (1-0) 3.5 favs over Cleveland (0-1). I Still think Denver stinks this year, but they might have lady luck on their side
5. Baltimore (1-0) 4.5 dogs @ San Diego (1-0).
Upset Special:
6. NY Jets (1-0) 5.5 dogs at home vs Patriots (1-0)

Let's see how I do this week.

Not so fast

I didn't do so good on my 6 NFL picks, 2-4. If it's any consolation (and this makes me happy) I got my upset special correct. I'll do better next week.

I know most of my recent posts have been only about sports and that is not my only topic. I just haven't really felt like commenting on Life, Politics, Entertainment and Life outside of sports. I've been having a pretty rough last 8+ months personally and every morning I wake up, I pray when I go to sleep the next night, it will be a uneventful day. There hasn't been too many of them in the last 235 days.

Until then, I will continue posting about sports. BTW, The Hockey News has the Flyers picked as their preseason favorites to win the Stanley Cup.

Week 1

Week 1 in the NFL is here.
So here are my 6 picks
1. Bengals 3.5 pt favorites over the Broncos. Denver looks good awful and who is playing QB?
2. Indy 6.5 favs over Jacksonville.
3. Houston 4.5 over The Jets
4. Seahawks 7.5 over St. Louis. Seattle at home and St. Louis Rebuilding
5. Giants 6.5 over the Redskins
6. 49ers 6.5 under at the Cardinals. My upset Special

Let's see how I do

Lights Out For Lidge

Happy 090909. Baseball Season is winding down and the Phillies have a very big question they need to answer - What do they do with Lidge? He has been pretty awful this year and makes me think he is injured. They might need to shut him down, because it could cost the team a chance to repeat.

Ryan Madson has pitched well and if they shut Lidge down, Madson will probably be the replacement. The Phillies have the luxury of options for their post season pitching staff. It's time for everyone to buckle down and do their job. I think anyone of the top teams can win the World Series this year and whoever gets hot and rides that hot streak will do it.

This time last year, no one was picking the Phillies and they sort of came out of nowhere, this year, they have been leading the way most of the season. I think they need to be patient hitters and run counts deep and get to team's bull pens. All thing equal, I will take the Phillies Bull Pen over anyone elses.

A Game for the Ages

It seems every time Miami and Florida State get together, it comes down to the wire. Last night was no different. In what can best be described as a war of attrition, Miami squeaked a win out on the road against their upstate rivals. Miami was far from impressive, but either was Florida State. Both teams showed flashes of brilliance, but neither team looked like the could beat a top 10 team.

Here are a few of my observations from the game:
1. Jacory Harris, Miami's Sophomore QB, looked really good. He showed tremendous poise and I was quite impressed with his calm demeanor.

2. Too many UM players were cramping up. You practice in the sweltering heat of South Florida. You have to be prepared and hydrate your body.

3. Florida State has a lot of talent, but I question coaching.

4. UM is still a while away from being back, but it was a step in the right direction. They need more from their Offensive Line and their Special Teams cannot afford to cost them unnecessary yards.

5. This was a nice confidence boasting win, especially with Georgia Tech on National TV next Thursday, Oklahoma and Virginia Tech their next 3 games.

6. Randy Shannon is a good coach and a great guy and deserves an opportunity to rebuild the dynasty.

I am not a big College Football guy, at least not until they do away with the BcS and bring on a playoff, but games like this will keep me tuned in all season long.

One Week and Counting...

With a week until NFL Kickoff, here are the rest of my 2009 predictions:

Wild Card Weekend:
New England (4)
Houston (5) Houston

Pittsburgh (3) Pittsburgh
Miami (6)

New Orleans (3)
Green Bay (6) Green Bay

Seattle (4)
NY Giants (5) Seattle

Divisional Round
San Diego (1) San Diego
Houston (5)

Indianapolis (2) Indianapolis
Pittsburgh (3)

Philadelphia (2) Philadelphia
Seattle (4)

Chicago (1) Chicago
Green Bay (6)

Championship Round
San Diego over Indy
Chicago over Philly

Super Bowl
San Diego over Chicago

2009 NFL Season

We are just 10 days away from kickoff '09 and I thought I would share my thoughts and predictions of the upcoming season. There is no scientific reason why I say what I say, it's just based on my gut and my observations.
AFC West
San Diego Chargers (11-5)
They could very well be the best team in the NFL. Phillip Rivers is an upcoming QB. LT still has a little left in the tank. Darren Sprowls is on the verge of becoming a superstar ala Michael Turner. The Charger Defense is good, scary good. The one weakness I see are the Wide Receivers. But with that said, Chris Chambers has been a number WR, but had an awful year last year. Vincent Jackson is an upcoming star who needs to show consistency.

Oakland Raiders (9-7)
I thought the Raiders were going to be a surprising team this year, however watching them get destroyed by New Orleans in a meaningless preseason game, I am questioning my decision. I know it's preseason, but JaMarcus Russell looks lost. How can a team win with a lost QB? On the bright side, I think Darren McFadden will have an excellent Sophomore Season. They way the NFL is, talent prevails and Oakland has some talent.

Kansas City Chiefs (8-8)
When you fire your Offensive Coordinator less then 2 weeks before the start of the season, that's not good. Matt Cassel is hurt, that's not good. They traded their leader on the off season, that's not good. New Head coach had the Cardinals Offense playing at a very high level last year and I think they can do the same with this Chief team. I expect Larry Johnson and Dwayne Bowe to be all pros and Todd Haley to be in the running for the Coach of the Year.

Denver Broncos (4-12)
Sorry Bronco fans, this will be a very LOOOONNNNNGGGG season. I don't like the pick of Knowshown Moreno. I think Kyle Orton is a decent QB with a lot of weapons surrounding him. But Brandon Marshall is a question mark and Defenses will challenge Eddie Royal with all kinds of double teams. Denver's Defense is bad and signing an aging Brian Dawkins will prove to be a bad move for the Broncos.

AFC North
Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5)
If Steelers win 5 games this year, I wouldn't be surprised. But I think they are a very disciplined team. They win in the trenches and make big plays when they need to. I predict Willie Parker to have a huge season and I Limas Sweed or Dallas Baker will come into their own as 3rd and 4th receivers.

Baltimore Ravens (9-7)
The lose of Bart Scott is going to hurt this team. Samare Rolle missing the first 6 games will hurt them too. Joe Flacco will experience somewhat of a sophomore slump. LJ Smith will be the biggest bust of a free agent signing. But Ray Rice will emerge as a top flight running back and Willis McGahee will settle into his position as a change of pace Back.

Cincinnati Bengals (5-11)
I wanna like Cincinnati, I really do. They have so much potential, but until Carson Palmer comes back healthy I can't see them winning more than a hand full of games. They have play off potential, but I am afraid to bet on them.

Cleveland Browns (4-12)
This is a rebuilding year for the Browns. Brady Quinn will settle into the QB position, but their ground game doesn't get me excited. Braylon Edwards took major steps backwards last year and I am not sure if he can back to where he was in a Browns uniform. The Browns will move in the right direction after this year when they move Derek Anderson and Braylon Edwards for picks.

AFC South
Indianapolis Colts (11-5)
Losing Tony Dungy might hurt a little and cost them 2 games. But I have all the faith in Peyton Manning. The big question will be the Colts Defense and I think they will show early how good they are. Reggie Wayne quietly is becoming one of the best Receivers no one gives credit to. Expect an all pro performance this year from Reggie and I expect a nice 1-2 punch with Donald Brown and Joseph Addai.

Houston Texans (10-6)
After back to back 8-8 seasons, it's time for the Texans to make a move and this is the year they will do it. With an under rated Defense and great Running Attack, I would be surprised if they aren't a playoff team.

Tennessee Titans (9-7)
I think Jeff Fisher is the best coach in the NFL. I think they have a great Running game and one of the top 10 teams in the trenches. Nate Washington will have his coming out party this season. But they play in the toughest division in the AFC.

Jacksonville Jaguars (6-10)
Jax is one of those teams that will not surprise me one way or another. David Garrard is steady, but not spectacular QB. Mo Jones-Drew is 1,000 yard guy, Torry Holt will bring them a solid veteran presence, we just have to wait and see.

AFC East
New England Patriots (11-5)
Tom Brady is back and Bill Bellichik is still there

Miami Dolphins (9-7)
Last season was as much of a fluke at 11-5 as was the year before's 1-15. The Dolphins are on the right track to be an elite team. They are a veteran receiver away from making some noise.

Buffalo Bills (6-10)
Mt. St. Owens will erupt by week 8.

New York Jets (5-11)
I just think they are a few years off. I think Leon Washington will have a great season and get a HUGE raise next season

NFC West
Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
A healthy Matt Hasselbeck will lead the Seahawks back to the playoffs and I love the signing of Edgerrin James to compliment Julius Jones.

San Francisco 49ers (9-7)
This is my surprise team in the NFC, Glen Coffee will impress so much, Frank Gore will be shopped around in the off season. Once Michael Crabtree signs, he will excel. He has all the talent in the world, he just needs to stay away from his cousin and sign. He's got to earn his money on the field.

Arizona Cardinals (6-10)
See New England in '08; Chicago in '07; etc.

St. Louis Rams (6-10)
Still trying to find their identity. By season's end, no one will want to play this team.

NFC North
Chicago Bears (11-5)
Monster of the Midway are back. Matt Forte, Jay Cutler, Greg Olsen and Devon Hester, I see big things from this offense and the Defense still has it.

Green Bay Packers (9-7)
They might even be better than I expect. Aaron Rodgers has all the tools to be a superstar, I think a lot depends on Ryan Grant. Their success will coincide with each other's performance. Defense is the question.

Minnesota Vikings (9-7)
What a boring off season for the Vikings? Ha, I see the Diva playing okay, but his boy Chilly will take the fall and won't be around to see next season. Mike Holmgren will take the call and be the Diva's coach in '10. Adrian Peterson will be solid, but won't live up to those lofty expectations set upon him.

Detroit Lions (5-11)
The Good news, they will improve by 5 games, the bad news, it's not enough. Matthew Stafford will have a tough rookie season when he starts, but Kevin Smith and Calvin Johnson will stick out like sore thumbs on this team.

NFC South
New Orleans (11-5)
I am drinking the Drew Brees/Sean Peyton kool aid. With improved Defense and a strong season from Reggie Bush, the Saints will win the NFC South. Look for Jeremy Shokey to be comeback player of the year.

Atlanta Falcons (9-7)
Mike Smith and Matt Ryan will not sneak up on anyone this season. They will be a very fun team to watch, Tony Gonzalez will be a nice presence and Roddy White will earn his new contract

Carolina Panthers (5-11)
I just don't think Jake Delhomme will get over that horrible performance from their playoff game last season.

Tampa Bay Buccs (4-12)
Rebuilding year for Raheem Morris, but he will get the time to build a winner.

NFC East
Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)
A Make or break year for Donovan McNabb. He deserves better than what he got from Philly Phan.

New York Giants (10-6)
Eli Manning and Brandon Jacobs will have monster seasons

Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
Wade Phillips will be fired by week 9 and Jason Garrett will not be able to right the ship. Mike Shanahan will be their new coach next season.

Washington Redskins (5-11)
Daniel Snyder has no clue, Albert Haynesworth signed for what? Jason Campbell will play like a lame duck QB. Bright spot, Clinton Portis

Plax Is Going To Serve Hard Time

Should Plaxico Buress serve 2 years of a prison sentence for shooting himself in the thigh? That seems like it will be debated for the next two years. Personally, how can someone be this stupid. Rule of thumb, if I feel I need a gun to go to a place that I don't have to go to, probably safe to say I am not going.

As a husband and father, I'd like to think Plax would put his family first and stay home on a Sunday Night instead of hitting a Night Club with an illegal firearm on him. Well, He'll have 2 years to put things into perspective and hopefully learn from his mistake.

I hope others will learn from his stupidity and do the smart thing.

The good thing is, in 2 years, he might have an NFL job to come back to.

Brett Favre

UGH!!!

Michael Vick

Surprise, Michael Vick has a new home and surprise, surprise it's with the Eagles.

Am I shocked by Vick signing with Philly, not really. The Eagles are poised to make a run at the Super Bowl and the needed a Back Up QB with experience, an insurance policy for Donovan McNabb. Do I think he is a long term solution, No.

I like the signing. I have no problems with Michael Vick. He payed his debt and deserves a second chance. Now, with that said, he's on a short leash (no pun intended.) He's got to be close to Quire Boy Status. Philly fans might be hating on this move now, but the second he comes in and scores a TD or the Eagles win because of his heroics, they will forget his past.

I commend Andy Reid and Jeffry Lurie for taking a chance on him. And I hope it all leads to a Super Bowl Parade down Broad Street.

Experiment

I decided that this coming football season, I am going to make my NFL picks on here and see how well I do. I am thinking on the lines like this:

1. Pick every game with the spread and without the spread.
2. Pick my top 6 games of the week both with and without the spread
3. Pick my Lock of the Week and my Surprise of the Week.

I am really curious how I will do. I am not a gambler, but I think I know more a lot about picking the right team.

My first bold prediction is this: I will pick 60% correct without the spread and 52% correct with the Spread.

Anyway, I will pick the standings and Superbowl teams in a few weeks.

The Dog

For the last 5 weeks, my wife and I have been dog sitting. Our next door neighbor's grand daughter was going away for several weeks and needed a place for her Bichon. She was offering us some compensation and besides, we know the dog and she seems like a sweet dog.

The dog is beyond sweet. She follows me around like, well, a puppy dog. She absolutely adores us.

I am not a dog person, I love other people's dogs, but I, myself would never get one. But here are a few observations that I made with this pooch:
1. She's fat, but isn't a big eater. So she is fed lots and lots of table food.
2. When she goes for a walk, she smells every inch of every lawn. It wouldn't be so bad if it weren't 97 degrees outside when I walk her.
3. She follows me around EVERYWHERE just so I can pet her. She loves getting her belly rubbed.
4. She's so desperate for anything else but her dog food, she eats Sheri's bird's seed that fall besides the cage.
5. I can only hope my baby is this excited to see me when I come home each day.

We have the dog for 2 more weeks and you would think the owner would check in on her maybe once? I don't get some people. Watching the dog is a nice preview for the change that will be coming to my life in the next 10 weeks.

Trade Deadline

We are just over 24 hours until the MLB Trade Deadline and as a Phillie Fan, I am sorta happy to report the Phils traded for 2008 AL Cy Young Award Winner, Cliff Lee. It just feels as if the Phillies are holding a high priced consolation prize. It's no secret, Blue Jays GM JP Ricciardi dangled Roy Halladay out there to see what his value is. I believe Ricciardi had no intentions of trading Hallday and Ricciardi was just grand standing.

Ricciardi asked for a lot for Halladay and if I were the Phillies, I would have done it. But, Ricciardi knew the Phillies wouldn't budge. So if the Phillies come up short on another World Series, Phillie Fan will be playing the what if card on Holliday. But, take it from me, don't fall into that trap, Halladay was going no where.

As for the trade, Cliff Lee is a good pitcher. I look at him like another Joe Blanton, who had a phenomenal 2008. Is he better than what they have? Maybe. Was he worth the four prospects that were traded for him? Probably not, unless The Phils win another World Series.

Here are the prospects:
P Carlos Carrasco. I saw in pitch in Spring Training and I was unimpressed. His fast ball wasn't that fast. His control was atrocious. I didn't see him as a back end of the rotation guy or maybe even a Bullpen guy.

C Lou Marson. I liked what I've seen of him. He definitely has a lot of potential and seems to be Major League Ready. If he wasn't traded, he probably would have been Carlos Ruiz' back up and gotten 45 starts. He might be a better hitter than Ruiz, but can he handle the Phils pitching staff?

SS Jason Donald. I saw him in Spring Training also, and liked what I saw. He is definitely Major League Ready, but not sure where he would play? Jimmy Rollins will be the Phils Shortstop for the foreseeable future as will Chase Utley at Second. Pedro Feliz should be resigned for another few years at third.

P Jason Knapp. I don't know much about him, he is a top 10 prospect, but he is rather young. I think he will have a better Major League Career than Carrasco.

All in all, the Phillies needed to bolster their rotation and they don't have too much faith in Pedro Martinez to be anything more than a 5th starter. I think Cliff Lee will be keeping a spot on the bench for another year and two months until Kyle Drabek is ready for the Majors. I will reserve the final grade of the trade until October.

10 Burning Questions about the NFL

With Training Camps opening in a week, here are 10 questions we really want to know:

1. Can The Steelers Repeat?
It hasn't been done since the Patriots in 2001 & 2002, but another Super Bowl win for the Steelers will add to their Dynasty Resume.

2. Who will have a better season, Dallas or Buffalo?
Dallas has always had talent, but can't win a playoff game. They play in arguably the most competitive division and will Roy Williams and the Receiving Corp put up numbers. Buffalo went all in this season with the signing of TO. If the experiment fails, Coach and GM are fired and a rebuild is inevitable and maybe the Bills move to LA?

3. Brett Favre?
Will he or won't he or as I like to put it, who cares, let him come back with Minnesota and watch them miss the playoffs and finally people will see what I have been saying all along, Brett Favre is OVERRATED.

4. Matt Cassel?
Was he a one hit wonder who benefitted from The Patriots around him.

5. Jamarcus Russell?
Is this the year he shows he is a number 1 pick or a bust?

6. Chad Ochocinco?
I should say the Cincinnati Bengals, are they a legit contender this season?

7. Houston Texans?
They have been on the Cusp of greatness.

8. Michael Vick?
Will anyone take a chance on him and/or will he be reinstated?

9. San Diego?
They have been teasing us for years, is this the year they put it together?

10. John Maddenless?
What will the NFL be like without John Madden for the the First Time?

Saddened, but not shocked

I can't say I am shocked about the untimely death of the King of Pop. For a generation, Michael Jackson changed pop music and became the first entertainer to mix upbeat pop music and dance moves never seen before. How many times did I play Thriller? I am pretty sure the tape is worn out. As amazing of a performer as Michael Jackson was, in his personal life, he was one weird dude.

He transformed from a good looking Black guy to a scary looking white guy and that was just the tip of the ice berg. From Never Land Ranch to Deprivation chambers to dangling his baby over a balcony, Michael Jackson definitely had some issues he needed to resolve.

When all is said and done, I will remember Michael Jackson belting out Beat It or Leading the zombies in the greatest video of all time, Thriller. There will never be another like the King of Pop.

PEDs in Baseball

This might be one of my favorite topics - Performance Enhancement Drugs in Baseball. After lots of thoughts on this topic, it simply comes down to the Hall of Fame. We as fans have a problem with guys who have the numbers to go to Cooperstown, but did it on the shady side. If we go back through the current members of Baseball's HOF, how many of these guys cheated? Used something they shouldn't have? Done something that may not have been so Kosher? I am willing to bet 10-15% did.

The thing about the HOF that bothers me the most, is how baseball players get inducted - by Writers. Think about it, a writer holds the key to whether or not Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Alex Rodriguez gets inducted into the Hall of Fame, that is ridiculous! Can you believe there are some writers who actually did not vote for Babe Ruth to get in? Sandy Koufax! Jackie Robinson! Those writers who didn't vote those guys in, should lose their voting PRIVILEGES.

I feel the HOF should be based on a point system (I Can't Take Credit for this idea, but I will expand upon it.) Bench Marks need to be set and this is how the HOF now inducts it's players.

This is just a rough draft:

For Each 162 regular season game, they get 1 point
For Each 10 Post Season games, they get 1 point
For Each 300 batting season, 1 point, For every 40 home run, 1 point, For every 100 rbi's, 1 point, For every 15 wins, 1 point, etc.

About 35 points or so and you are a Hall of Famer, no writers. And starting now, if you are caught with PEDs or breaking rules, no Hall, If you got through it in the past, so are lucky.

Just something to think about.

15 years ago today...

I am sure you were glued in front of the television, watching the White Ford Bronco driving on the LA Freeway. Where has the time gone? I remember watching OJ and this whole ordeal thinking, how can someone like OJ Murder his ex wife and her friend, it was impossible. Celebrities don't do this kind of stuff. Oh how Cynical I have become 15 years later. Maybe it was because of OJ I lost my compassion for most people? I'd like to think OJ Simpson opened my eyes to the world I live in and now I don't believe everything I see and hear. So, OJ, your once glorious, now pathetic excuse for a life has done one thing, it has knocked some sense into me.

The Police Blotter

We are just a shade over a month away of NFL training camps beginning and almost all is quiet on the NFL Front. In the next several weeks, all of the draft picks will be signed and ready for camp. TO and his ego will be in Buffalo, smiling and cracking jokes and hugging his new best friend, Trent Edwards (5:1 this relationship goes down like all of the others by week 3.) Michael Vick will be done with his home confinement and looking for a new job, I don't know who will be the one to take a chance on him?

And than there are Dante Stallworth and Plaxico Burress. Stallworth pleaded guilty to dui manslaughter and will serve a 30 day jail sentence, He also settled with the family, terms undisclosed. It sucked Stallworth had to go through all of this, but serves him right for killing someone while under the influence. Stallworth was at least man enough to get this ordeal over with and for that, I give him credit. He took his punishment like a man and I believe he deserves a second chance.

Plax on the other hand is stalling. Hoping he can play another season before he gets looked up in the clink. So lets get this straight, Plax, the responsible person he is, goes to a Manhattan Night Club along with his gun because he doesn't feel safe. He puts the gun in his elastic waistband of his warm up suit and gets drunk. The gun slips down his pants and when he grabs it, he shots himself in the leg. After the alleged coverup, Plax is charged with gun charges, etc. NYC wants to make an example of Plax and will not plea anything without jail time. Plax keeps stalling hoping he won't go to the big house. Now it looks like Plax won't stand trial until after this season and because he has a "clean" record, the NFL and Roger Goddell cannot suspend him until there is a judgement on his case. Is it fair, nope. I just hope NFL owners think long and hard about this guy before signing him and show some class and let him serve his jail time before he resumes a professional football career.

A Friday's Random Thoughts...

It's kind of funny, during the stretch run of past two seasons, the New York Mets choked. There's no other way to candy coat it, the New York Mets choked! Over the last 3 nights, I had to listen to Keith Hernandez and the Met broadcast team try to paint a rosy picture and if it wasn't happening. Hey Boys, let's call a spade a spade, the Mets felt their weakness over the last two seasons was their bull pen and they addressed it by adding JJ Putz and Francisco Rodriguez and how did that work out for the Mets? Their bull pen collapsed, losing two games against their rivals. I don't think the Phillies are playing that well, but as long as the Mets show they beat a reeling team, I say the Mets are going to choke again this fall.

Speaking of choking, the Yankees spent a lot of money in the off season on Sabathia, Burnett and Texiera. These acquisitions and the loss of Manny, was suppose to add up to the Yankees blowing everyone away in the AL East. So far this year, the Sox are 8-0 against their rivals. This isn't going to turn out well for GM Brian Cashman and Manager Joe Girardi if the Yankees repeat what they did last year. The Red Sox have to be flying high, they are doing it with Big Papi on the decline, Matsuska injured most of the year and the retirement of Schilling.

Part of me is cheering against Washington Nationals first round pick and number 1 pick overall, Stephen Strasburg. The money his agent Scott Boras is gonna command will put a team like the Nationals out of business. And if this guy fails, how many teams will want to take chances on guys like this? I don't see this guy being the next Roy Halladay or Cole Hamels, who was the last prospect of this caliber to actually pay off?

The NBA finals is going on... (If I have nothing nice to say about something, I will just keep my mouth shut.)

Tonight is game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals in Detroit. Call me crazy, but I have this strange feeling Pittsburgh will shock the world and win the Cup. I am pulling for Crosby and Malkin, it's what the NHL needs, young team and players to market the sport around.

Guys like Tim Floyd should be prosecuted. They come into Universities and take advantage of their position, illegally recruit, get caught "resign" and the school pays the price. The School is put on probation, the Athletes who are there get penalized because they are stuck in a program that will probably be post season ineligible, they have to sit out a year before they transfer. The guilty player isn't there long enough to be punished (OJ Mayo) and the Coach gets off Scott Free with a Million Dollar Buyout. So I say guys like Floyd should be arrested and fined for fraud.

Is there a tougher pound for pound guy than WEC's Urijah Faber? He fought 4+ rounds with a severed finger.

Donovan McNabb Signed an extension, hopefully keeping him as a life long Eagle. Is there a guy who gets more crap than spewed on him than McNabb? First from that Communist Druggie Rush Limbaugh, than from the Philly Press and Fans. You may not like the guy, but you can't question his ability and he will go down as one of the top QB in NFL history. I hope he wins a championship to cement his legacy amongst the elite.

And Now Brett Favre (see my comments on the NBA Finals and that's how I feel about Favre.) I just wish he would retire already!

Better Than Jordan...

I am not an NBA guy, at least not in the last 10 years. But I feel the need to blog about an email I received from a friend regarding Lebron James. After James hit his Jordanesque Buzzer Beater against Orlando, this nameless friend claimed James is officially better than Jordan. Ummm, nah, not even close.

Michael Jordan was the reason I watched the NBA. He was the best player in the league and every year he got better. He made the guys around him better. He made the coaches who coached him better. He made the city he played for better. Lebron James, like Kobe Bryant and Dwayne Wade will always be compared to Michael Jordan, but they will never surpass him.

Lebron James is tremendous basketball player, although to be fair, I haven't watched too much of him. Lebron reminds me more of Magic Johnson, than Jordan. Lebron will put up numbers and they will be based on his lack of competition as opposed to his skill. I have no doubt Lebron will win championships and he might even transcend the NBA to the next level, however, I will miss most of it. The problem with Lebron James is the same problem with the NBA. There's a lot of sizzle, but no substance.

The NBA develops stars, they place these stars on a pedestal. Refs call the game different around these stars (I didn't think it was possible guys today get more calls their way than when Jordan played.) But basketball is played with 5 guys at a time, 7 guys on the bench, 24 second shot clock, Four 12 minute quarters in 30 cities. The NBA needs to get back to the basics, let the game flow.

I have been a huge proponent to forcing college players who choose college to be there at least 3 years or if they chose to play professionally out of high school, let them. The NBA needs to develop a minor league system like Baseball and Hockey. Teach these young guys how to play post school basketball. It would even serve the NBA to open up developmental leagues in South America, Europe, Asia and anywhere else basketball is played.

So to get back to the original statement, Lebron is not better than Jordan. In 10 years, I still have my money on Jordan.

It's A Girl

Over the last year+, my life has been what I can only describe as a Roller Coaster. It seems with every good thing that happens, a road block was thrown in my way. I believe things happen for a reason and sometimes we may not know exactly why. But with all that said, I happy to report I am going to be a daddy to a baby girl. Every morning, I wake up and pray for a smooth day for my better half and for that matter, everyone who is important to me.

Words cannot explain how much I am looking forward to parenthood, at the end everything I have been through, will all be worth it.

Likes and Dislikes

I just thought I would give a list of things I like and things I dislike:

LIKES:
People With Manners (Please and Thank You)
Chocolate Milk
NHL Playoffs
"Lost"
Classic Rock & Roll
Good Hygiene
Technology
Solving a Puzzle
Cooking
Target
DIY Network
Satellite Radio
Sandwiches
Crocs

DISLIKES:
Not washing hands after going to the bathroom
Reality TV
NBA Playoffs
Walmart
Not putting a towel around yourself in the gym locker room
Cold Weather
Flip-Flops with Jeans on a man
Country Music
Stupidity
Not picking up after yourself
Having No Manners

These are just a few things I like and dislike, something to think about until next time. :)

Introducing... Isiah Thompson

Florida International University in Miami introduced their new Basketball Coach, Isiah Thomas this week. This is such an interesting move, FIU has gotten more publicity for this, than their infamous brawl with UM a few years ago at a football game. Thomas has been a major failure at everything he has done since his playing days. He ruined the Continental Basketball Association, He took the Indiana Pacers from contenders to the lottery in a very short time and destroyed the New York Knicks in the 5 years he was apart of the organization. Why would FIU hire him to build their basketball program?

Thomas has some name value, but than again, so does OJ Simpson. Thomas was one of the best Point Guards in the history of the NBA. He won a National Championship with Indiana in 1981. I am miffed why FIU did this. Do they realize exactly who they hired? They didn't even know his name when they introduced him at the Press Conference. What's he going to say to the Parents of the Kids he recruits?

I am taking a wait and see approach. I really hope he puts FIU on the map and for all the right reasons. The Sun Belt conference they play in, is one of the weaker mid majors, but with the additions of Mike Jarvis to FAU and John Brady to Arkansas St and Western Kentucky's NCAA tournament success, the Sun Belt might be ready to move up the conference ranks.

Isiah Thomas won some points with me, by donating his first year salary back to the University. Yes, he is owed $12 Million from the Knicks, but he still could have also taken what FIU was paying him. I think in 3 years we will be able to judge if this was a good move, but I guarantee, the Golden Panthers will be on ESPN a few times next season.

Outta Here!

What a Mean Title. But those two words cannot be said in any other voice than Harry Kalas'. I still have his call for Mike Schmidt's 500 Home Run ringing in my head, in fact sometimes when I am in the car driving, I was give that call. Kind of odd, probably, but this is the effect Harry Kalas has had on my life.

Up until a few years ago, Phillies baseball was synonymous with losing. If there was a way to lose, the Phillies invented it. Back in the old days, it was always the same, the Phils would seem like they might have a chance, fly out to the West Coast and drop 7 of nine to San Diego, LA and San Fran, moving the Phillies down the NL East standings. But there was one constant, no matter how bad the team was or how bad the games were, we had the privilege of listening to Harry Kalas.

Philadelphia is a fickle city. We sit in the shadow's of New York and Washington, we complain when we loss, we complain when we win, we are tough on the athletes and management who perform for us. We are never satisfied, we are a bunch of Arm Chair GMs who can do it better than the guys being paid to do it. The one constant our sports has are the guys who call the games for us. And Harry Kalas was the best.

I never met Harry, but I wanted to so bad. Every time I went to Spring Training, I hoped I would get 2 autograph's - Mike Schmidt and Harry Kalas. I've met Mike Schmidt before and he was very pleasant towards me. I even joked with him about Harry's call on his 500 and I did a lame imitation of it, it got a chuckle. I always wanted to meet Harry and just wanted to thank him for making Phillies baseball so enjoyable to me.

Harry Kalas will be sorely missed and I am glad I had the privilege of listening to him for 37 years. When I am alone in my car and that thought pops into my head, "Swing and a long drive, deep left field, that ball is outta here, Number 500 Michael Jack Schmidt," I will say out loud with a smile on my face.

Getting Lost

Rarely there is a television show that entertains and keeps you thinking like Lost. The story of The Survivors of Oceanic Flight 815, surviving on an island in parts unknown. The show evolved from season, but the one hook that keeps it interesting are the characters. Watching them grow from year to year, show to show, scene to scene is the fuel that keeps the show so intriguing.

There is a good dose of Mythology and a large amount of Literally references, but the soul of the show is in the interaction of the characters. Lost was very smart to put an time frame on the show, so the show could build to an ending. Nothing seems what it is and I really enjoy the subtle hints and clues of things to come.

Character redemption is one of the biggest recurring plot lines of the show. Everyone in the show has, for a lack of a better word, baggage. I enjoy watching the characters sort through their problems and issues and become better people. Unfortunately, when this happens, it usually means the character is killed off. (Ecko, Anna Lucia, Michael and Charlie.) If this is any indication of things to come, I hope Evangeline Lilly has her resume ready to go.

I can't wait for the show to finally wrap up and answer all the questions it asked from the beginning. But until than, I will enjoy the roller coaster ride.

Some Various Things

My version of a stream of conscious, sports style.

I am tired of hear bout T.O. Is he a Hall of Famer? Probably not. He has the numbers, but he will be remembered as a self-centered guy who couldn't make things work with three teams (and counting.) Unlike some prima donna's before him, TO has no bling on his finger signifying his team was the best that year.

Jay Cutler seems like a big baby. I am glad Denver is trying to trade him, I personally would. He doesn't seem like the kind of guy I want leading my team. I don't think he has it in him to lead a championship team, he is too concerned about his feelings being hurt. I think he will wind up in Tampa or New York (good luck with the NY media) or an outside chance he ends up in San Francisco.

I am happy Coach Cal took the Kentucky job. I always knew he could be a big fish in a small pond, now he will have the chance to be an even bigger fish in an ocean. The SEC is right for the pickings, I see an immediate turn around for Kentucky and good fortunes for Coach Cal.

It will be very interesting to see how the Yankees do this season. They have invested a lot of money in their team, but was it money wisely spent? Well, I guess it doesn't matter how much they spend, it seems like they print it up themselves, but I question some of their pick ups. CC Sabathia, great pitcher, but they over paid for him. They were bidding against themselves. Mark Texeria, see above. AJ Burnett, Reminds me of Karl Pavano, I am sure he will spend a good portion of the year on the DL. I am still not impressed with Joba or any of their young arms. With all that money they spent, anything less than a World Championship will be a catastrophic. Imagine if they do not make the playoffs again this year? Heads will roll.

I like Carolina winning the NCAA Tournament this year. But I am pulling for Villanova. I know it's no Temple, but it would be great if Nova does it. I really like Michigan St upsetting UConn. It will be a virtual home game for them and is their a better big game coach than Tom Izzo?

Finally, here are my predictions for the upcoming MLB Season.
AL WEST: Angels, A's; Mariners; Rangers.
AL CENTRAL: Indians; White Sox; Twins; Tigers; Royals.
AL EAST: Yankees; Red Sox; Rays; Jays; Orioles.
NL West; Giants; Dodgers; Diamondbacks; Rockies; Padres.
NL Central: Cubs; Cardinals; Astros; Reds; Pirates; Brewers.
NL East; Phillies; Marlins; Mets; Braves; Nationals

Angels & Cubs in the World Series - Angels Champs

It's Been a Long Time...

I definitely have to not wait this long to post, 6 months is way to long. The thing is, a lot has been going on in my life, yet not too much to report. This is my first post in 2009 and I really haven't been inspired to write anything. With all that is going on in the world, I have been down. But something happened to me on Saturday and I am still unsure how to respond. I was in a hopeless set of circumstances and I could not do anything to control the outcome, except pray. I don't know exactly who I was praying to, but I prayed for a miracle.

I got one. I am still overwhelmed that my prayers were answered, but they were. Someday soon, I will go into very detail what happened, I am not ready to do that as of yet. I am just grateful I was strong enough to make it through the toughest day of my life, knowing I couldn't do a damn thing to change the outcome except pray.

So the moral of this posting is this, Have Faith.