NFL Owners and Players Can't Reach A Deal - Legal Battle to Ensue

Time has come, time has gone. Extension was given, extension has gone. Mediation requested, yet nothing seems to have been accomplished, and Friday the owners made it official by moving forward with locking out the players until a new Collective Bargaining Agreement can be reached.

Now, in case you're not familiar with what it is, or if you live in Wisconsin where there seem to be a lot of people who have forgotten what collective bargaining is, collective bargaining is when the group of workers in a specific field are allowed to have a say in the environment of their workplace. They are also allowed to negotiate things like health benefits, pay rates, etc... This is the whole purpose for having a union.

As with pretty much everything else in professional sports, the main issue revolving around the current work stoppage is money. The owners, claiming that they are losing money, are asking for a larger chunk of the $9 billion worth of revenue generated by the NFL. The players assert that the owners refuse to prove this, though there are many teams who have come forward ready to open their books for all to see. Many teams, however, have not offered to help prove the owner's point.

The players, however, while attempting to play the role of the victim, are doing something that isn't exactly on the up and up either. Knowing that a lockout was possible, the union threatened to decertify so that they can sue the league with an anti-trust lawsuit; claiming the owners are discriminating against a specific group of people. It's a crafty move that, frankly, made it so that they didn't have to make too much of an effort either. If you ask me, if you want to have the rights to collectively bargain, then you need to also accept the possibility of a lock out, not try to pull a little stunt like this so that you can get your way.

Bottom line here, the NFL as a whole is going to suffer from this. $9 billion of revenue, and they can't agree on a way to divide it. I have an idea. Why doesn't the NFL take that $9 billion that they are so indecisive about, and give it to public education. The state of Colorado alone is proposing to cut $300 million from the education budget, I bet that they could find a way to use it. So could the teachers in Wisconsin who now have lost their rights to collectively bargain.

All people involved in this lockout come off looking like greedy millionaires and billionaires crying about needing more money. Not good, especially in the current economy. Once again, until both of these parties can bring their big boy pants to work, both the league and the players will lose money and the fans.

NFL and NFLPA Headed to Counsoling

According to an article from yahoo sports, the NFL and the NFLPA have apparently agreed to resume talks about a new collective bargaining agreement. To make matters even more hopeful, both sides have agreed to mediation. What is this we're seeing? Signs of maturity from both sides? Realizing that making sure they get a deal done and don't alienate the fans is more important than that extra billion dollars that they're fighting over.

Nah, they probably just realize that there won't be that extra billion to bicker about if there isn't a season next year. Nonetheless, this is really the first glimmer of hope that we have seen regarding the progress of the new collective bargaining agreement since the owners opted out of the current one.

Will mediation do any good though? I think so. Mediators are great at laying out the wants of both sides and finding places to give and take. The biggest challenge of this is going to be the people on the two sides. Just like the clip I posted, yeah I know, not very journalistic of me, but funny nonetheless, these are two sides that are willing to fight it out tooth and nail to get what they want. I mean, during the last rounds of talks, things did, allegedly, get a little bit touchy.

It will be good for both of these sides to have somebody saying out loud, "if you want to get something done, then you're going to have to compromise." Something the fans, and some of the players, have been saying for a long time. I'm sure there will be many more updates regarding this over the coming weeks. Let's hope that there is something productive to talk about. As for now, looks like both sides have finally found those "big boy pants" and pulled them out of the dresser. We'll see if they are now willing to walk around in them

Shannon Sharpe; HOF

In his 14 year career, Sharpe made the Pro-Bowl 8 different times. He was voted an AP First team All-Pro four times, as well as a Second team All-Pro once.

Sharpe was part of three Super Bowl teams. He helpd Denver win back to back titles in Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII, and was part of the Baltimore Ravens when they won their title in Super Bowl XXXV.

His 62 career touchdown receptions was the most all-time by a tight end at the time of his retirement, which has also recently been past by Tony Gonzales. The same can be said of his 815 career receptions.

It wasn't just the number of his catches, but also the situations. Shannon Sharpe became a favorite target of John Elway, who constantly found him when the team needed a clutch first down. The most notable reception came in the 1997 AFC Championship Game in Pittsburgh. Denver had seized control of the game, only to see Pittsburgh storm back in the fourth quarter. Clinging to a 3 point lead, Denver faced a long third down in the late stages of the 4th quarter, and Shannon Sharpe was the one who got open and converted that first down. After that, the Broncos were able to run out the clock, and eventually went on to win their first Super Bowl in franchise history.

If these accomplishments and statistics, which are all in the top 2 of the tight end position of all time, aren't enough, the icing on the cake comes from this final accomplishment. Shannon Sharpe was name a member of the first team All-Decade team of the 1990s. Other players on that roster include: John Elway, Barry Sanders, Emmitt Smith, Jerry Rice, Cris Carter, Gary Zimmerman, Bruce Matthews, Randall McDaniel, Willie Roaf, and Dermontti Dawson. All but 3 of those players (Sharpe, Carter, Dawson) are members of the Hall of Fame. That is some pretty good company.

The numbers don't lie. His career most definitely speaks for itself. There can be absolutely no argument, Shannon Sharpe is deserving of, and should be inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame.

The Return of The A-Mac: Playoff Style

Sorry for disappearing. Between work and losing a computer, life got in the way! I have returned to grace the site once again to do my Wild Card Weekend picks.

AFC:
#1 New England & #2 Pittsburgh both have byes in the first round. This will allow both teams to gets some rest including Little White Jesus(Danny Whitehead) and The Sensational Samoan(Troy Polamalu) recover from their latest injuries. She Said No and TFB will also enjoy some time off. Hey Ben don't assault anyone during your off week ok?

#6 Jets at #3 Colts.
A rematch of last years AFC championship game, these teams are coming in from two different directions. The Jets limped in on Foot Fetish Rex especially Mark I am not very good Sanchez while Peyton Manning and the Colts finished strong to overtake the surprising Jags to win the AFC South again. FF Rex is a good coach but his teams need a strong performance from Revis Island and LDT to stop the trampling colts. This might be Peyton's hardest year given he lost his best players with Austin Collie joining the list in week 16. I still think The Manning Face(TM Bill Simmons) wins this one. It will give Rex a long offseason for him and his wife to film their new HBO series, Tickle Toes.

#5 Ravens at #4 Chiefs.
Todd Haley did the best thing he could do after the Cardinals Super Bowl, jump ship. It was a sinking one plus he got a head coaching job. Little New England seems to be good under his regime even though Charlie Weis is leaving to go to Florida. Explain to me why you'd leave the NFL for College. I don't get it. Thats ok. The Chiefs will hire former Little King as their offensive coordinator next year. The Ravens are still the Ravens. Joe Flacco has won playoff games, Matt Cassell has never played in one. Ray Lewis who must thank the stars every day for Mike Vick is doing ok as is Ed Reed. The Ravens will win a defensive battle and advance to face a rematch of the 09 playoffs in Foxboro with the Patriots.

NFC
#1 Falcons and #2 Bears both have byes. Da Bears certainly surprised me this year. I thought Old Horny Perv and the Purple were going to be the best team in the North. Well that was a wrong prediction. Doesn't help that Brad Childress is probably one of the worst coaches ever in the modern NFL. The Falcons have 2 former U of Montana players on their team so go Griz.

#6 Packers @ #3 Eagles.
The last time Mike Vick faced the Pack in the playoffs, it was a cold snowy game in Lambeau. He took out OHP's team back then. Fortunately for Bad Newz Vick, this one is at home with Aaron Rodgers still coming off of a concussion. If Greg Jennings can do this for the Pack in real life they will win. I think Vick and Jackson might be too tough though. Eagles win

#5 Saints @ #4 Seahawks
Its embarrassing that a 7-9 team made the playoffs but it happened. The Seahawks were blown out a lot this year by good teams. They did win the shittiest division in football. Its a home game and the Saints could suffer the effects of the 12th man. Who knows! The Saints win this one 30-12 with the Hawks only scoring FGs.

So, the divisional rounds should look like this.
AFC
#5 Ravens @ #1 Patriots
#3 Colts @ #2 Steelers

NFC
#5 Saints @ #1 Falcons
#3 Eagles @ #2 Bears

NFL Playoffs Set

Well, the regular season has come to an end, yet again. I finished off the season with a rather mediocre 9-7, but had a grand total of 161-95. I had a 63% success rate in my picks, which is roughly the same as last year, which was just at 61%. So a bit of improvement! Yay!

I also managed to pick the playoffs pretty well last year, so here's hoping I continue. At any rate, here is my initial playoff picture picks.

AFC:
#1 New England & #2 Pittsburgh both have byes in the first round. But we still have some great games on tap.

#6 Jets at #3 Colts.
This has the makings for a great game, depending one which of the teams in the game decides to show up. Colts are always exciting to watch, but have had some inconsistency due to the massive amounts of injuries this season. The Jets have been scary in their own inconsistency this year, and you just can't be inconsistent against Peyton Manning. I think the Colts get the better of things in this one.

#5 Ravens at #4 Chiefs.
First, hats off to Todd Haley and the coaching staff of the Kansas City Chiefs. They took the Chiefs from being one of those circle games, games you circle on your schedule at the beginning of the year because you're fairly positive that you could play horribly and still win by 2 touchdowns, to being a tough team to play against. That being said, I don't know that they'll be able to stick around with the all around skill and toughness of the Ravens. This will be a very close, low scoring game, but I think the Ravens squeak this one out.

NFC
#1 Falcons and #2 Bears both have byes.

#6 Packers @ #3 Eagles.
This should be one of the best games in the whole playoffs. The Packers managed to recover from a down slide, and a couple Aaron Rodgers concussions to play their way into the playoffs. The Eagles have definitely been the most exciting team to watch, thanks largely in part to Michael Vick, with a bit of help from DeShawn Jackson. The Packers aren't flashy, but they can get the job done. I tell ya, I really don't know which way to go with this one. I think I'm going to go with the Eagles because you just never know what Michael Vick can do. He's pretty much permanently in my dog house, pun intended, but you can't deny that the guy has had an awesome year.

#5 Saints @ #4 Seahawks
You have to admire Pete Carroll and his reaction to all the people saying that a 7-9 team doesn't deserve to be in the playoffs. "Get over it." Gotta love it. And I agree, just get over it folks. They won their division, they're in the playoffs. I don't care their record, and you can not like it as much as you want, but division winners, however poor their record is, deserve to have a playoff game. Rest assured though, they'll get creamed by the Saints in this one. Saints should win a laugher, but you never know. That's why they play the game, as Chris Berman loves to say.

So, the divisional rounds should look like this.
AFC
#5 Ravens @ #1 Patriots
#3 Colts @ #2 Steelers

NFC
#5 Saints @ #1 Falcons
#3 Eagles @ #2 Bears

Should be a good week! Let's see what we get!

NFL Coaches Going Away

Well, every year seems to be a pretty tough one for coaches in the NFL. We've seen Wade Phillips, Brad Childress, Josh McDaniels, Mike Singletary all get fired in the middle of the season. We've heard that Jon Fox won't be returning to Carolina, and we naturally hear the long list of coaches who are "on the hot seat", as it were. Well, I'm going to touch on a few coaches that I think will probably stay, and a few who I think will almost assuredly go.

Staying, Tom Coughlin. Every year it seems we hear something about people thinking that he's lost the locker room, but then the Giants have a couple of games that show things are more with personnel than bad coaching. The players respect him, and he is a good coach. He took that team to a Super Bowl, and I don't think Coughlin will be going anywhere, unless it is him deciding to retire.

Going, Norv Turner. How can you have a team as loaded as the Chargers, be the team that has the #1 offense and #1 defense in the NFL, and NOT make the playoffs. This, coupled with his absolute inability to get this team anywhere in the playoffs in previous years, makes this pretty much a no-brainer to me. He's one of those guys who makes a really good coordinator, but just not a very good head coach. Every single year, it seems that this Chargers team is always starting slow. 2-3, 2-4, 3-6, etc... This year, they weren't able to make that improbable second half of the season run to get into the division, and Turner is probably going to pay for it.

Staying, Tony Sporano. Yes, the Fins were very up and down this year, but I think you can't let this guy go. He's firey, innovative, and very passionate. More than anything, I think the Fins year was a result of personnel changes in key positions that had a hard time ever getting used to each other because of injuries and not knowing playing styles, things like that. With time, this Dolphins team will only get better. Henne will learn to give Marshall more of a chance, and Marshall might learn how to just shut up and play, it's possible!! Either way, I think Sporano sticks around for one more year. If there isn't improvement after that, then you might see him go.

Going, Marvin Lewis. A HUGE drop off for the Bengals this year when there really shouldn't have been. There weren't any major personnel changes that happened with the Bengals, other than the signing of Terrell Owens, which may have helped take Chad Johnson's (NEVER CALLING HIM BY HIS RIDICULOUSLY STUPID NICKNAME) mind off the game, and put it more on their pathetic excuse of a talk show. At any rate, they go from winning the AFC North, possibly the toughest division in the AFC, to being basement dwellers again. We may even see Carson Palmer out of Cinci now. At any rate, Lewis has had more than his fair share of opportunities to take the Bengals to glory. After this year, I think he's pretty much toast.

Staying, Jeff Fisher. Tennessee was bad this year. I think that this was largely because of the lack of leadership at the quarterback position. Vince Young is a spoiled brat who believes that he is bigger than the team. Kerry Collins is 800 years old. Jeff Fisher needs a mature, team player of a QB. They may draft one this year, but I don't see Jeff Fisher going anywhere.

Going, Gary Kubiak. Everybody, including myself, thought that this was the year for the Houston Texans to make the playoffs. With their fast start this year, the way things have ended this season have probably sealed the fate of Kubiak in Houston. They had a great chance to do something their franchise had never done, but they fell short. As a result, I think Kubiak has seen his last game as coach of the Houston Texans. He'll probably land in Denver, in my opinion.

Love to know what coaches you think are staying and going.

KGs week 17 picks

The last week of the regular season! Very excited to see what comes of the games this week as there are quite a few with major playoff implications. I've been 10-6 for the past 2 weeks in a row, giving me a grand total of 152-88, for 63.3% correct predictions this year. Not bad, I'll take it! So, here we go!!

Miami @ New England: Pats should win this one pretty easily. A pretty disappointing year for the Fins this year.

Minnesota @ Detroit: Favre isn't playing, or probably won't be playing, and the Vikes have done better without him. I got the Vikes in this one, but wouldn't be too surprised if the Lions take it too. Still, Vikes.

Carolina @ Atlanta: Atlanta, easily. They'll come to play in this one, because a win in this one gives them home field throughout the NFC playoffs.

Oakland @ Kansas City: I think Todd Haley may be the NFL coach of the year. He's done a great job with this Chief's team getting them to a division title. I think the Chiefs will take this one as well, and get to 11 wins on the season. Hats off to Todd Haley.

Pittsburgh @ Cleveland: Steelers.

Buffalo @ NY Jets: I have a weird feeling about this one, and somehow just think the Bills are going to upset the Jets here, who are now more concerned about the playoffs.

Tampa Bay @ New Orleans: Tampa needs a big win in order to get into the playoffs. New Orleans needs a win and has to hope for a Falcons loss in order to steal that #1 seed in the NFC. Will it happen, don't know about that, but I do think that the Saints play to win, and do win.

Cincinnati @ Baltimore: Baltimore definitely needs a win if they want the division title, look for them to come with all their tricks this weekend. Ravens beat the lowly Bungles.

San Diego @ Denver: San Diego should be completely and totally PO-ed at the way that this season has ended up for them, and look for them to take all of that out on a truly horrible Broncos team. I'll give Tebow his due, he played very well against Houston. But I will also remember that he played a bad defense in the Texans. San Diego is going to be something very different for him this time around. Broncos get hammered in this one.

Chicago @ Green Bay: Packers really let one get away last time they played the Bears. The Packers absolutely have to win if they want in the playoffs, and I think they'll get the job done. Packers.

NY Giants @ Washington: G-men also need a win if they are going to get into the playoffs, and they need a Packers loss since they lost the head to head game against the Packers. I think the Giants can take down the Skins in this one, and they will.

Jacksonville @ Houston: This is a must win for Jacksonville. They really have to hope that Indy falls, as well. The Texans are really playing for Coach Gary Kubiak's job, if you ask me. Houston has had a hard time winning, but I think they'll break through in this one, and spoil the Jag's playoff hopes. Though it will still probably be Kubiak's last game as Texans coach.

Dallas @ Philadelphia: Philly needs a big win here to ensure them of the #2 seed, and I think that they'll get it.

Tennessee @ Indianapolis: Indy needs a win, and it is almost impossible to bet against Peyton Manning in a must win situation. Plus, the Colts have suddenly developed a running game, right when they need it, and they'll use that to put the Titans down.

Arizona @ San Francisco: Arizona has found some success with their rookie QB. I think he'll take them to one more win this season over a pathetic Niners team.

St. Louis @ Seattle: Once again, the NFL's weakest division comes through. We will have a team in the playoffs that does not have a winning record. There may even be a first time that a team with less than .500 record making they playoffs. Unless I'm mistaken, I don't think that's ever happened before. I don't think it will happen this year either. Sam Bradford finishes off his rookie of the year season with a win, and a playoff spot. Rams.

Great season of football! I'm looking forward to the playoffs!!

KGs week 14 picks!

Had another good week last week. 12-4 again, except I forgot to put my picks in to my pick'em league. Silly me. Went from 1st to 4th. Here's hoping I make a bit more ground this week. 120-72 now. Moved up to 62.5% correct!

Picked the Colts this Thursday and was right on that one. So another good start to the weekend. Already 1-0, let's see if I can't get 15 more! :-)

Cleveland @ Buffalo: Cleveland has actually shown that they can beat tough teams this year, Buffalo has shown that they can get close to tough teams, but then let it get away at the end. Bills move closer to the #1 pick after they lose to Cleveland.

Green Bay @ Detroit: Green Bay, easy.

NY Giants @ Minnesota: G-men, whether or not Favre starts. The game will be closer if Favre is NOT playing. Giants are the team to beat in the NFC east right now.

Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh will be tested in this game, Bengals always play them well, but the Steelers take this one and move closer to another division title.

Tampa Bay @ Washington: Tampa is for real, and has a really competitive team. The Skins, on the other hand, are really struggling. They may keep it close, but the Bucs prevail.

Atlanta @ Carolina: Carolina stinks, Falcons move closer to their division crown with this one.

Oakland @ Jacksonville: Should be a good game here, but I think Jacksonville eeks this one out in what will be a closer game than the 10 point victory suggests.

St. Louis @ New Orleans: St. Louis is playing well, is doing well, has exceeded everybody's expectations. But no way they beat the Who Dats in their house. Give me the Saints.

Seattle @ San Francisco: Seahawks have fallen off their impressive start, but since both these teams play in the worst division in football, nobody is really out of it. I'll take the Niners in this one.

New England @ Chicago: Bears get a real test here, and will FAIL, miserably. I definitely hate the Pats, we all know this, but they'll be the Bears. Look for Cutler to spike in picks in this game. Take away his running game, and he'll throw 3-4 INTs a game.

Miami @ NY Jets: Jets need to win this one, and I think they will. They now have to count on the wild card after being embarrassed by the Pats.

Denver @ Arizona: Broncos did the first smart thing that they have done since hiring McD, and got rid of him. Now their former RBs coach is the head coach. This will probably be an ugly, UGLY game, but it's weird how the players will execute so much better after the head coach gets canned. Broncos win their 4th, and possibly last, of the year.

Kansas City @ San Diego: A good game here. KC holds their playoff destiny in their own hands. Win, and they pretty much clinch the AFC west, lose, and they still are the favorites to win the AFC West. What a job Todd Haley, Charlie Weiss, and Romeo Crenell have done with this team. They are creating a culture of winning in a team that has come close in the past, but never gotten over the hump. I like the Chiefs, but think that the Chargers will take this one since they are at home.

Philadelphia @ Dallas: Philly will embarrass Dallas in this one. I look for this one to get out of control in about the 3rd quarter.

Baltimore @ Houston: Absolute must win for Houston if they want to have any chance of getting to the playoffs. They'll put up some points against an older Ravens team that has its good weeks and its off weeks. In the end, Ravens take this one, and possibly move Gary Kubiak one step closer to taking over the Broncos job.

Hoping for 15 more correct guesses this week! Enjoy football this weekend! I will! Look out for my College Bowl picks VERY soon.

KGs week 13 picks

108-68 after another 12-4 week. Very nice. Here's hoping for another good week!!

Houston @ Philadelphia: I chose Philly in this game, and was right! Finally, after the first 2 Thursdays flubbing for me, I have been 4-0 on Thursday for the last 2 weeks. So good way to start the week.

Denver @ Kansas City: Denver absolutely hammered KC the last time these two played. Since then Denver has lost the last 2 in a row, in rather embarrassing fashions. KC is on the road to the playoffs, and Denver is on the road to a top 5 draft pick. Chiefs beat the Broncos in this one.

Cleveland @ Miami: Browns have been spoiling a lot of team's parties, though probably still don't have a shot at the playoffs, and the Fins are playing desperate right now because they are in a tough division and will probably be the odd team out. This is kind of a tough one to pick, because Cleveland is so surprising, yet at the same time, not really all that good. And the Fins are a team that really should be better, with all their talent, but have been a pretty big disappointment. This is kind of an eenie meenie type game for me, but I'll take the Browns in an upset. We miss you in Denver Peyton Hillis, and we'd like to trade Josh McDaniels to get you back.

San Francisco @ Green Bay: Green Bay, easy.

Buffalo @ Minnesota: This could be another very interesting game. Another team with huge expectations that has pretty much dropped the ball from the get go, and Buffalo, who has been bad, but not that bad all at the same time. They've been in most of their games of late, and have lost some serious heart breakers. I have a feeling that they could push over the Vikes here, but I just don't think they'll fully manage it. Vikes in a close one.

Chicago @ Detroit: Bears will take this one.

Jacksonville @ Tennessee: Jacksonville is playing well, and Tennessee is not doing so great. Nobody really expected to see the Jags on top of the division right now, but they are. And Moss has been a no factor for Tennessee. He's not doing a great job selling himself to other teams for the end of his contract. Jags keep going.

Washington @ NY Giants: G-men. Shanny hasn't quite gotten over the hump with these guys yet, and the giants are setting up for a playoff run. G-men should take this one down.

New Orleans @ Cincinnati: Well, once again it is time to begin calling them the Bungles. Saints should take this one. Lots of passing against a very weak secondary.

Oakland @ San Diego: I don't know what it is about San Diego and the way the play a season out, but they suck early, and they're good late. Oakland managed to take one from these guys earlier in the year, but I don't think that this is going to happen this time around. San Diego is playing too well, but they'll disappoint in the playoffs again and finally fire Norv Turner. You know, the Chargers might have actually won a super bowl if they had kept Marty Schottenheimer.

Atlanta @ Tampa Bay: Atlanta is the real deal, and has the inside track to home field advantage in the NFC playoffs, and they keep going today.

Carolina @ Seattle: Panters stink, Seahawks are ok, Hawks take this one.

St. Louis @ Arizona: St. Louis has a possible track into the playoffs, which would be amazing after their previous year. Arizona is awful, I'll take the Rams.

Dallas @ Indianapolis: Give me the Colts bouncing back in this one. They know that they have to work hard to make the playoffs this year. Manning won't let this one get by. Give me the Colts.

Pittsburgh @ Baltimore: Always a good match up between these guys. Two teams at 8-3, always running for the top of the division. Hard to pick a winner, they just know each other so well. Baltimore took the first one in a close one, and I think the same is bound to happen here. But these ones are always close games, so you never know.

NY Jets @ New England: GAME OF THE WEEK!!! Easily. Jets are the better team here, in my opinion, but the Pats are hot now, and I've rarely seen a top team so affected by playing at home versus on the road. I believe that the Jets will end up taking this one, mostly because I hate the Patriots, but Rex Ryan just seems to know how to beat these guys.

KGs week 12 picks!!

Had a much better start to my weekend this time, going 3-0 on Thursday. Had the Pats, the Saints, and the Jets winning, and they finally came through. Much better last week as well. I recovered from my pitiful 5-9 showing to go 12-4. With the exception of Thanksgiving, I have never liked Thursday night football. Wrote about that last year. Check it out if you like. Anywho, 96-64 after my 12-4 week, looking to keep on the up trend.

As I mentioned, I got New England over Detroit, the Saints over Dallas, and the Jets over Cincinnati. So 3-0 already, here are the rest.

Green Bay @ Atlanta: Green Bay has been playing so great lately, and they have one of the better secondaries in the league, plus a good pass rush. Atlanta is also playing great, but I just think that Pack prove to be too much.

Pittsburgh @ Buffalo: Pittsburgh, no question. Though the Bills may make it closer than people think. They have surprised several teams that nobody really expected them to be much of a factor against.

Carolina @ Cleveland: Carolina stinks, and Cleveland has discovered a leader in Peyton Hillis. I look for Hillis to have a big day in beating up the Panthers.

Jacksonville @ NY Giants: The g-men should be able to take this one in what will be a pretty exciting game.

Minnesota @ Washington: This is one of those games where I really can't tell one way or the other. It is pretty much a coin flip for me, as both of these teams aren't playing very well. I gave it to the better running game, which is AP and the Vikes.

Tennessee @ Houston: This division is actually up for grabs for the first time in a really really long time. Both of these teams have a possibility of winning it. I think the Texans have to win this in order to keep their division title hopes alive, and I think that they will squeak it out.

Miami @ Oakland: Another interesting match up here. The Fins have been up and down, and now they're kinda banged up. They are struggling to find some really good consistent offense, and the Raiders are sort of surprising people with some good wins. I think that Oakland should be able to take care of business at home here.

Kansas City @ Seattle: Good game here, but I think KC is too much for the Seahawks in the end.

Philadelphia @ Chicago: Bears have a much better record than they rightfully should. Bad quarterback, old defense. They are going to get picked apart in this game. Lots of people have been throwing around Vick's name for MVP. I seriously hope not because I find him an absolutely reprehensible human being, but he's playing some seriously awesome football right now. Iggles, easy.

St. Louis @ Denver: Well, if you look at it, Denver should win this game. I have the Broncos picked to win, but I won't be shocked one bit if they blow this one too. I'd almost be happier if they did blow this one. The more they lose, the faster the boy king, who apparently wants to be so much like Bill Bellichick that he will even cheat the same way that he does, will get run out of town. At any rate, I pick the Broncos, but secretly hope that they will lose.

Tampa Bay @ Baltimore: Baltimore has let some teams stick around this year, which isn't something that they have a history of doing. Their defense hasn't been nearly as dominant as in the past, so they could have their hands full against the Bucs. Full or not, they are still a group of veterans who have been there and done that, and will end up with a W against the Bucs.

San Diego @ Indianapolis: Another tough one for me to pick. Colts are favored, and are playing at home. Colts have Peyton Manning, whom I almost NEVER bet against. Colts are, however, quite banged up and are without several of their weapons. Colts have also always had issues beating San Diego, no matter how much better they actually are than them. San Diego also has the #1 offense and defense in the league. Put all those things together, I have to pick the Chargers. I hate doing it, because I despise Phillip Rivers and Norv Turner, but that's just how it is.

San Francisco @ Arizona: This has become kind of a who cares type of game. Both teams are out of any realistic type of contention for anything. It's hard to pick this one. Tweedle Dee, or Tweedle Dumb? I'll simply take the 49ers because they are the only of these two teams that have played with any type of desperation this year. The cards have pretty much been like a balloon very quickly deflating. With the same sound as well.

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KGs week 11 picks!

Trying to get my picks in, and I have had wine, so we'll see how well these come out in my slightly tipsy version of my picks. Please excuse any typos that you might see. :-) 84-60 after a horrible 5-9 week last week. Looking for an improvement.

Miami @ Chicago: I chose Miami in this one, and missed. 0-2 in my Thursday picks. Boo.

Buffalo @ Cincinnati: This is an interesting match up. I honestly wouldn't be that surprised if Buffalo wins, but I just think that Cinci's receivers are too good for Buffalo's secondary. I'll take the Bengals.

Detroit @ Dallas: Sometimes a change in coach will light a fire under the player's rear ends to. Seems that that happened in Dallas. I think the boys will win 2 in a row, but still won't be going too far too fast. Cowboys.

Washington @ Tennessee: Skins are in disarray. Titans will take this one, but it could be a pretty close game.

Arizona @ Kansas City: Arizona is in transition, and KC needs to rebound after a horrible week against the Broncos last week. I think that KC will bounce back and take this one.

Green Bay @ Minnesota: Favre is still hobbled, and Green Bay has the NFL's sack leader. I think the Pack are finally ready for a regular season win against their arch rivals. Give me Aaron Rodgers and the cheese heads.

Houston @ NY Jets: Tough one here. Both of these teams have been making it hard for people to decide which way they are going. The Jets are doing well, and Houston should definitely be a threat in the playoffs, but both teams have had some let downs in the not too disatant pass. I'll give the edge to the Jets since they are playing at home, but won't be surprised if the Texans take this one. Jets.

Oakland @ Pittsburgh: Steelers. No question.

Baltimore @ Carolina: Ravens, not even a small hesitation. This one will get ugly fast.

Cleveland @ Jacksonville: This one could be deceptive. Jacksonville is a traditional run team that seems to be moving towards more passing. And Cleveland now has a pretty stellar run game, led by Peyton Hillis (whom I still desperately wish was in Denver.). I have a funny feeling about this one. I've picked against Cleveland the last 2 weeks, and been punished for it, so I will stop. Give me the Browns.

Atlanta @ St. Louis: St. Louis is much improved, but not enough to take out a very talented Falcons team. Atlanta.

Seattle @ New Orleans: Seattle needs to get better fast, but won't happen against the Saints.

Tampa Bay @ San Fran: I believe that Vegas has San Fran as the favorite in this one. If I'm a betting man, give me that bet. I'll take the Bucs in this one, easily.

Indianapolis @ New England: The one that everybody will be worried about. I'll tel you my main reason for this pick, injuries. I almost never will pick against Peyton Manning, especially against the Pats, but I just think that Colts have too many injuries to overcome the Pats this time. It makes me feel dirty, but give me the Pats.

NY Giants @ Philadelphia: A very good game in the making here. G-men looking to rebound against a Philly team that DESTROYED the Skins last week. If there is a D that is good enough to stop Vick, it's the G-men, but Vick is too hot right now. Give me the Iggles.

Denver @ San Diego: Denver played great last week, stemming the tide of McDaniels hot seat talk, but that won't continue. I forsee another pretty bad beating from the Chargers in this one against my home town boys. Please, fire McD. The Broncos run game is a disgrace because of this guy, get him the hell out of town. Chargers.

KGs week 10 picks!

9-4 last week, not half bad. My fantasy teams continue to tank, with the exception of my pick'em league. Grand total of 79-51. Hoping to keep my rolls going.

Baltimore @ Atlanta: Happened Thursday. I chose Baltimore, and was wrong. **sigh**, oh well.

Cincinnati @ Indianapolis: Cinci has been so inconsistent this year, and Indy has been hammered by the injury bug. Cinci's inconsistency is worse in the end. Colts win this one.

NY Jets @ Cleveland: Cleveland pulled off another huge win last week. They are better than people give them credit for, and have a strong possibility of winning another big one. I think the Jets come well prepared enough to squeak out a close win. But give the Browns their due. They have risen about the poor Cleveland designation.

Minnesota @ Chicago: Well, 2 teams that both aren't playing very well. Bears have definitely slowed since their hot start, and the Vikes have never really gotten going, but with that exciting come from behind victory they got over Arizona last week, they may have found a rallying point. Their defense especially seemed to have gotten a shot in the arm. I think they will ride that momentum past the Bears this week.

Tennessee @ Miami: Randy Moss's debut with the Titans. He has played the Fins very well in the past. The Fins have also had a very difficult schedule, and the Titans won't make things any easier. Fins will keep it close, but will fall short again.

Houston @ Jacksonville: Houston got screwed on a bad call last week. That full catch rule is ridiculous. If it is no longer a touchdown when a guy catches the ball, crosses the plane of the goal line, and has control of the ball the entire time he's crossed the goal line, then I don't know what is. Jacksonville still isn't very good, and Houston is on the rise. They have to show that they can bounce back, and they will.

Detroit @ Buffalo: Bufallo stinks, Detroit is flirting with relevance. I'll take the Lions.

Carolina @ Tampa Bay: Tampa Bay has shown that they have a legit chance to win their division. Carolina has shown that they can't really do much of anything this year, I'll take the Bucs.

Kansas City @ Denver: I love my Broncos, but they have no ability to really do anything this year, other than get hammered. They couldn't stop the Raiders run game, and they won't be able to stop the Chief's run game. Broncos take another step towards a new head coach this week, and lose another division game at home.

St. Louis @ San Francisco: Rams have played very well this year, far exceeding expectations. San Fran has been the exact opposite, and are coming off a bye after beating the Broncos in England. This could be a close one, but the Rams should be able to pull this one out.

Dallas @ NY Giants: Dallas is going nowhere fast, but down. The G-men are moving closer to another division title. G-men.

Seattle @ Arizona: Arizona totally blew it last week. They had the Vikes right where they wanted them, and, in the immortal words of Dennis Green, they let them off the hook. They can't do that again. I do, however, believe that the Seahawks will take this one down.

New England @ Pittsburgh: New England can't play on the road against anybody, and the Steelers are much tougher than Cleveland. She Said No will definitely have his way with the girl in the Pat's huddle (apologies for that).

Philadelphia @ Washington: Good win for Philly last week, and maybe Vick will finish this game out this time. I think that if Vick stays in all 4 quarters they will take this one. Too much drama in D.C., Iggles prevail.

Here's hoping things go well this week!

KGs week 9 picks

Crazy NFL season continues!! My fantasy teams have been a pretty huge disappointment at this point in time. The only exception has been the excellent picks that I have made. I am currently number 1 in my yahoo pick'em league. Very happy about that! So, with that said. Here are my picks for week 9 of the NFL season. By the way, 8-5 from last week, not great but still a winning record, puts me at 70-47 for the season. Just barely under 60% correct. Hoping to get better!

Tampa Bay @ Atlanta: Tampa has played quite well this year, but Atlanta is really starting to find their rhythm. Atlanta will take this one in a very good game.

Chicago @ Buffalo: Buffalo has shown some life in this season, but never on defense. Bears should win this one.

New England @ Cleveland: Cleveland has the biggest shocker win of the year when they beat the Saints. I think they will be more competitive than people expect during this game, but still can't take down the Pats.

NY Jets @ Detroit: Detroit finally got a win last week, but are they able to win 2 in a row for the first time in what seems like a decade? Not this time. Jets bounce back and take this one.

Arizona @ Minnesota: Inconsistent vs. inconsistent. The inconsistent Vikes will take this one.

New Orleans @ Carolina: Saints got a HUGE win last week against a very good Steelers team. I think that they will keep things rolling against a not very good Carolina team. Saints.

Miami @ Baltimore: Miami has been so up and down this year. They can play tough teams, as shown against the Steelers, when a very questionable call kept them from winning the game. So don't rule them out against Baltimore. But, I do think that Baltimore is going to take this one. Ed Reed will ball hawk like he always does and will make a big play against Chad Henne.

San Diego @ Houston: San Diego showed some heart last week, coming back to beat the Titans. Houston needs to bounce back after losing to Indy. Houston has shown great resolve this year, and I just haven't seen much of anything that has shown San Diego is consistent enough to hold the Texans offense down. This will be a good one, but I have a feeling Houston will take this one late.

NY Giants @ Seattle: Seattle needs to show what they are made of after getting killed by Oakland. They may play decently, but will still not beat the G-men.

Kansas City @ Oakland: Oakland has tons of confidence after scoring a total of 92 points in the last 2 weeks. Kansas City needs this win to keep moving a head of the rest of the very mediocre AFC West. Oakland will probably lead early, but KC will prevail in this one.

Indianapolis @ Philadelphia: This will be a great game. Vick is coming back for the Iggles. And the Colts are still short a lot of people. But, if there is a person who can deal with injuries in their team, it is Peyton Manning. This guy is just so efficient. Had some tough games this year, but I just can't pick against Peyton Manning. Give me the Colts.

Dallas @ Green Bay: Cowboys are going nowhere fast, except for down. Packers win this one.

Pittsburgh @ Cincinnati: Cinci has so many question marks, just can't really ever seem to put the whole thing together. They will play the Steelers tough, just like always, but She Said No and crew will take this one down. Steelers.

KGs week 8 picks

Well, here we go again! It appears that A-Mac sat out last week for one reason or another, so I've cushioned my stats. I believe that I was 9-5 last week, getting both the Sunday night and Monday night games in order to assure a pretty good week, putting me up to 62-42 for the season. Still looking for that awesome week of picks, but man oh man has the league been a tough one to choose this year. Well, here we go.!

Miami @ Cincinnati: Cinci's secondary stinks, and their offense is anemic. Miami has a very underrated receiving core, and I have a feeling that the Bengals are going to get shredded in this one. Fins.

Jacksonville @ Dallas: No Romo, bad defense, stupid penalties, Cowboys just have everything running against them. I have a feeling that the Cowboys are going to just keep falling down. I think the Jags may have this one.

Washington @ Detroit: Last year, Washington was a winless team's best friend. They are better this year, and the Lions have been ever so close to pulling things out, but just can't. This could be a good game, and I think it will stay close, but I think the Skins will take this one.

Buffalo @ Kansas City: Buffalo has random weeks where they score a ton, but still lose because their defense stinks. They just aren't going to go anywhere this year. Bills lose again.

Carolina @ St. Louis: St. Louis is so improved this year, and actually have a fighting chance to make the playoffs. They keep those chances pretty healthy this week and beat a horrible Panthers team.

Green Bay @ NY Jets: Packers just can never seem to pull away, and if you let the Jets hang around, they'll beat you. Home field doesn't hurt either, give me the Jets.

Denver @ San Francisco (kinda): This one is out in England, in a game that nobody actually cares about back in the states. The niners are this year's biggest disappointment, and the Broncos just plain suck. I have a feeling that this team has quit on the boy king again, and I may be fairly shocked if the Broncos win 2 more games all year. So the players clearly don't care about McD, so I won't be surprised by how bad things will get for the Broncos. Niners win across the pond.

Tennessee @ San Diego: How bad does San Diego have to play in order to no longer be favored? These guys have forgotten how to win. Tennessee is too tough for them. Phillip Rivers will get hammered, but still not nearly as badly as he deserves to get creamed. Titans.

Seattle @ Oakland: Was Oakland really that good? Or is Denver just really that bad? I'm going with the latter. Seahawks move closer to an NFC West title with a win in Oakland.

Minnesota @ New England: I bet Favre plays, because his ego is too huge, and continues to hurt his team. Then, if Jackson plays, he's just not that good of a QB. Pats, either way.

Tampa Bay @ Arizona: Arizona is in disarray. Who'd have thought that Kurt Warner held together that team this much! Give me the Bucs.

Pittsburgh @ New Orleans: I am officially off the Saints wagon. These guys have forgotten how to dominate. And that is not a good thing to forget when you are playing a team like the Steelers. You turn the ball over that many times against Cleveland, it makes people scared about what will happen to you against the Steelers. No need for a blown call in the endzone this week, the Steelers will win.

Houston @ Indianapolis: Houston shocked the league with a huge win against the Colts in week 1. I don't think that the Colts will let that happen again. Colts take this one at home.

NFL and the Head Hits

The only thing that I can say here is wow. The players are going absolutely nuts with the NFL's newest points of emphasis here when it comes to the hits to the head. Now, this was an especially brutal weekend, as many people have brought up, where there were 4 pretty darn serious hits that would make any of us cringe a little bit. I was also watching Sports Center last night, and they were also reporting that, to this point in the season, there has been a jump of 14 concussion/head related injuries amongst players, from 21 to 35. Now that is pretty significant.

That jump, as well as the rather brutal weekend, led the NFL to say that they may begin to do more than just fine people for those particularly violent hits to the head. They may begin suspending players for this. So here's the long lasting, and very heated, debate that is going to be looming with players now. Is the league going too far in their punishment of these types of violent hits?

We certainly know where many of the players stand on this debate, as mentioned here by Yahoo Sports contributor Chris Chase. By and large, of course, the defensive players are going to be more riled up, as you see with Urlacher's comments in the article above. James Harrison has even threatened to retire because he isn't sure how to play football anymore. The players certainly have hit the right note of overly dramatic reactions to this whole situation.

The players are insinuating that the NFL is trying to take out one of the inherent attributes of football, the big hit. They are saying that people should expect injuries in football, that it is violent by nature, and to take this kind of a stand on hits to the head is analogous to, as Urlacher said, just putting flags on everybody and making it the National Flag Football League instead of the National Football League.

Now, I teach high school, so I am very familiar with the concept of people blowing things out of proportion when it doesn't work for them. Personally, I'm with the league on this; and I have a feeling that if the players think about this, instead of going with their initial, emotional reactions, then they will see this as well. The NFL is not out here saying, don't tackle hard, don't make big hits, don't make the play that you've always been taught to make in this situation. The NFL is saying respect your fellow players, and don't go for the kill, so to speak. There is a difference, no matter what the players say, between good, hard tackling that adheres to the fundamentals everybody is taught, and trying to hurt people.

Look at that hit that Brandon Meriweather put on Todd Heap on Sunday. That hit is exactly the kind of thing the NFL is trying to get rid of. That is an incredibly dangerous hit on a play where Meriweather had to have seen that the ball was already out of Heap's hands and the pass was incomplete. Then there was the Dunta Robinson hit on Desean Jackson. I understand the flag during the game because it was bang bang, and if you see the hit, you see Jackson's head fly back, as if his head got nailed. But the fine for this one, I have to believe, will be overturned because he clearly lead with his shoulder, not his head. This type of hit is the one that is not illegal, and that people are not trying to get rid of.

Then there's James Harrison. I feel that the announcers do a good job of differentiating why the hit on Cribbs was not flagged, versus why the hit on Massaquoi was. Here are both of the hits. So, people against these new points of emphasis are to tell me that Harrison wouldn't be able to make a legal tackle that doesn't involve him driving his forearms through Massaquoi's chin and still prevent him from making the catch? Really?

Now, let's also be realistic about this. The NFL has made these types of hits a point of emphasis in the last few years, doing more fining and flagging things like this more often. Yet, as I said at the beginning, there has been this spike of head injuries on these types of hits. What is the NFL supposed to do, just allow it to continue? Here's why I think the NFL is in the right on this. People say that this is what makes football exciting. Well, in my opinion, if the excitement comes from the types of hits that can end people's careers, or even their lives, then there is something wrong in the sport. If there aren't people willing to play the sport, because this injury gets out of control, then there won't be a game at all. Your players are what make the game exciting, and the NFL is doing the absolute right thing in protecting them.

I am open to other's opinions on this, so please share away!

KGs Week 6 Picks

I was a respectable 9-5 last week, which has brought my season total to 10 games over .500. I'm still pretty short of my really awesome record from last year (146-78 for a percentage of 62% right), but my record thus far is 43-33 (56%) but there is still plenty of time left. So here we go with our week 6 picks!

Atlanta @ Philadelphia: This is sort of a tough one to pick because both teams have played well and not so well. Nobody really seems to be able to tell who these teams are quite yet. Vick is still out, so it's still Kevin Kolb. Falcons are 4-1, but haven't exactly been terribly convincing, with the exception of their beat down of Arizona. Philly is still struggling to find out how to play consistently with either of those 2 QBs. Atlanta has more stability, and, as a result, will take this one.

Cleveland @ Pittsburgh: Cleveland has played teams very tough, but no team comes tougher than the Steelers. Even with She Said No back in the lineup, and all the distraction that will be brought on by the media from his "extra curricular activities" that got him suspended in the first place, the Steelers know how to stay focused and win football games. They will beat the Browns.

Seattle @ Chicago: The Bears are the worst 1st place team in football. After a truly pathetic game in Carolina, and the Panters are included in that pathetic description, Bears get QB Cutler back. He's still a turnover waiting to happen, and the Seahawks have new energy under Pete Carroll. I'm going out on a limb and taking the Hawks.

Miami @ Green Bay: Green Bay has been very underwhelming this year. They are supposed to be the team that comes out, moves the ball at will, and scores a ton of points, but they haven't been doing that. Aaron Rodgers is going to play after the concussion that he got last week, but he hasn't been that great either. They're very inconsistent, and are facing a team that really knows how badly they need a win. The Fins have got to start winning if they want to get into the playoffs since they currently trail both the Jets and the Pats. They'll be ready to play, but I think GB's defense is the big difference maker here. They've played well enough to win, and have been let down by the offense. I think they will continue to make good plays, and will probably get some special teams help this week to get by the Fins.

Detroit @ NY Giants: Detroit absolutely clobbered St. Louis, but the G-men have found their feet and are starting to play like the team we always expect them to. Eli will have a field day against Detroit, and the G-men will win big.

New Orleans @ Tampa Bay: What is up with the Saints here? Give up the game against Atlanta, barely beat Carolina, and then lose to Arizona!? Who are these guys and where is the group that won the Super Bowl last year? Tampa has surprised everybody, and has really made the teams that are inconsistent pay for being inconsistent. I'm going to go with the Saints on this one because they've got to know how bad it would be to lose to this team. That will make their road just to get back to the playoffs extremely difficult. I'm not jumping ship yet, but I'm pretty close. Still, Saints win.

San Diego @ St. Louis: San Diego has been allowing teams that shouldn't beat them, beat them. They are definitely missing LT and Vincent Jackson, though their offense does still continue to produce. Nonetheless, I still have a hard time picking St. Louis in this game, so give me the Chargers.

Kansas City @ Houston: Now here's a tough game to pick. KC is coming off their first loss of the season, and Houston is looking to avoid losing 2 in a row here. Both of these teams have legit playoff hopes for the first time in a while, so who will play like the better playoff team? My gut tells me to go with Houston on this one, but it's going to be a really close game. If they can get their run game going against this suddenly stout KC defense, then it will be a good day for the Texans. I'll take Houston.

Baltimore @ New England: This one was a good game last year, that got spoiled by some late, really stupid calls against Baltimore since the league has to always protect girly man Tom Brady. The Ravens are stingy as ever on defense, and have made some offensive improvements. The Pats are still old on D, just traded away their biggest receiving weapon, and resigned another undersized receiver. The Pats are always tough at home, but, just like last year, I will take the Ravens in New England.

Oakland @ San Francisco: Man oh man, San Fran has fallen so far. I completely over-estimated the Niners this year when I predicted that Mike Singletary could very well be coach of the year. I suppose he still could, but they'll have to win every remaining game. Oakland is riding high after beating the Chargers in San Diego, so there may be a bit of a let down in this game. So, I'll take the Niners in a squeaker at home.

NY Jets @ Denver: My Broncos showed how they responded to a tough team that doesn't take penalties, they fold like a cheap lawn chair. The Broncos had an absurd amount of penalties, and never really had a chance. They also got run all over by Ray Rice and Willis McGahee. Look for that to be the same type of formula that the Jets follow. Run it hard, and let your tough defense beat up the other team. Orton will get his passing yards, only because they'll be playing from behind early on. Oh yeah, that and they have absolutely no running game. McD has definitely been a step backwards for the Broncos. Look for this team to quit on McD again very soon, just like they did last year.

Dallas @ Minnesota: 2 teams that we all expected a lot from, that are now going to be very lucky to even make the playoffs. Both teams are 1-3, and both have just killed themselves at times. Moss is back for the Vikes, which is a good thing for them, and Favre seems like he might not play this week, which may be better for the Vikes with all of the distraction from Favre's "sexting" that he's doing (allegedly). The Cowboys just keep doing stupid things to themselves. I know they weren't happy with that penalty from last week, but you have to know the rules regarding celebrations. But then you can't blame the fact that your special teams gave up a 73 yard run, and your defense couldn't stop the other team when they needed to, on the stupid penalty that you took. Dallas, to me, will find another way to beat themselves, and the Vikes will improve to 2-3.

Indianapolis @ Washington: Washington has been perplexing. They haven't really been that great, but they haven't given up a lot of points and have stayed in games. Indy has been moving pretty well, but hasn't scored a lot of points. They had a gutsy win against a much improved KC team last week, and I look for them to build on that this week. Colts win.

Tennessee @ Jacksonville: Tough division this one. All teams sitting at 3-2, and all in need of a win. Jacksonville has managed to hang around, and Tennessee has lost some close games. I still see Tennessee as the superior team here, so I'll go with them on my Monday night game.

Here's hoping for 14-0!! Let's see your picks A-Mac!

KGs week 5 picks!

Welcome back ladies and gents! I was a measly 7-7 last week, but that's ok. Had a lot of surprises happen. Also had a heartbreaking fantasy loss last week. My yahoo team lost by slightly more than 1 point thanks to the monday night football game. Ah well, another week to try and rebound. So here we go!

Denver @ Baltimore: I give my Broncs credit for hanging in there against Tennessee and having the physical and mental toughness to pull it out. I don't think that they can do that 2 weeks in a row though, especially against a team like the Ravens that has a lot of offensive weapons. I see the Ravens taking this one.

Chicago @ Carolina: This could be a tough one. The Bears showed more of who they are last week, being completely manhandled by the G-men. The Panthers still have that 2 headed run monster, but their defense is definitely suspect. Cutler is out, which might actually be a better thing for the Bears, the big questions is how will the respond this week. Until Carolina proves that they know how to win, I can't really bring myself to pick them, though this one wouldn't surprise me if the Panters did upset the Bears, I will still take the Bears.

Tampa Bay @ Cincinnati: Cinci had good offensive numbers last week, but came up shorts against a really bad Browns team. Tampa has performed much better than most people thought that they would, however, they definitely need to improve on their pass defense if they even want to have a hope of winning this game. Charlie Batch SMOKED them, and we know what kind of a pass game Cinci has. I think the Bengals rebound in this one on the power of the pass game.

St. Louis @ Detroit: Detroit just can't seem to find out how to win. St. Louis is a very tough team to figure out. They have been quite consistent, surprisingly, but have played quite well! This could end up being a pretty good game. I think that the thing the Lions really need is a shaky defense to play against, and they have that against the Rams. Their offense has been quite good, and I think they'll get over the hump, kind of, against the Rams. Give me the Lions.

NY Giants @ Houston: Which NY Giants team is going to show up to this game, is the big question. Texans O-line is nowhere near as bad as the Bears, so I don't see another 10 sack game happening. Houston is not the team they were in the past, and are earning respect. I'll take the Texans in this one.

Atlanta @ Cleveland: Cleveland still stinks, despite a good performance against Cinci. Atlanta really should have no trouble with this one, Dirty Birds.

Kansas City @ Indianapolis: Is KC for real? I think so. Indy has struggled, but they will handle a much better Chiefs team in a game that will be much closer than anybody thinks.

Jacksonville @ Buffalo: Buffalo stinks. Jacksonville wins.

Green Bay @ Washington: Green Bay needs to have a strong performance for a full game in this one. Washington also needs to get that offense going more. They pretty much disappeared after the one touchdown they scored against Philly. They'll need more than that against Green Bay, but I don't see them getting it.

New Orleans @ Arizona: 2 inconsistent teams right now. But Arizona is far more inconsistent. Saints aren't nearly what they used to be, and really need to find that swagger. Weird that you have to say that about the defending champs. I will take the Saints again.

Tennessee @ Dallas: Dallas is still in desperation mode. They really need to find more of an offensive rhythm. I have been impressed with Tennessee, though they just need to not beat themselves and keep those fingers in their pockets on the sidelines. This team does have the most personal foul penalties called against them in the league right now. They are a very tough, physical team, we'll see if the Boys can stick around with that. I don't think that they can. Titans.

San Diego @ Oakland: Oakland stinks, San Diego will win this one.

Philadelphia @ San Francisco: Niners are just playing for respect right now, Philly still has a shot in their division, but they need a big game here. Niners are such a big bust right now it isn't even funny, and their bust of a season continues with another loss this week. I'll take the Eagles.

Minnesota @ NY Jets: This will be a great game. Moss is now back in Minnesota. But will that be enough to get this team going? They definitely need that big receiver threat that they lost with their injury to Percy Harvin. I don't know that he'll be enough. Jets D is still among the best that there is, and I think that they will take this one at home. Jets are looking like a very good bet to win the AFC East, and quite possibly win the AFC!

Tough week of picks! Let me know what you think!

KG's Week 3 picks

Well, I improved last week, going 10-6. Hopefully I will continue to take down the A-Mac Attack. Lots of good matchups this week, so here we go!

Indianapolis @ Denver: Broncos will be playing emotionally with the loss of their teammate. Moreno is out, and the Broncos D always seems to have questions. Peyton Manning always has a field day against the Broncos. I love my Broncos, but there is pretty much one way that they beat the Colts, and it's if Peyton Manning mysteriously disappears before the game. Colts win, in a big way. And people will immediately call for Tebow because they are foolish.

Cincinnati @ Carolina: Man, Carolina does not look good. And Cinci had a great game and win against Baltimore last week. They don't stop rolling here. Bengals take this.

Buffalo @ New England: Well, I can already hear the stories after this one. People love to talk about how the Pats are back after they beat a team that stinks. This will be no different. Pats win, but let's all remember who they're going to beat.

San Francisco @ Kansas City: This could be a good game here. San Fran is better than they seem, and KC is playing pretty well this year. What is going to give? Hard to tell. But since KC is the only team that has shown that they're going to win this year, I'll take KC.

Tennessee @ NY Giants: Tennessee's D is playing great, and the G-men just got thrashed by Eli's big brother. Though, we once again have the Vince Young or Kerry Collins saga, and that can take a toll. But you still got a great run game. So I'll take the best running game and the better defense, and that is the Titans.

Cleveland @ Baltimore: Poor Cleveland. They're going to get hammered in this one. Baltimore's defense may score as many points as the offense. This will be ugly, in a Ravens win.

Pittsburgh @ Tampa Bay: Steelers D is playing out of their mind, and they won't be intimidated by a surprising Tampa team. Steelers.

Atlanta @ New Orleans: New Orleans is still the team to beat. Saints all the way.

Detroit @ Minnesota: If there is a team that is vulnerable right now, it is the Vikings. The Lions are so close to respectability but just can't figure out how to win!! I think that they've got the balance now, and the Vikes are definitely reeling. I'm going to go along with A-Mac here, and I'll take the Lions in a close one.

Dallas @ Houston: Houston is the real deal, and they will continue to roll and become the best team in the state of Texas.

Philadelphia @ Jacksonville: No denying that Mike Vick is playing well, but how consistent can he be? He gets a favor in another not very good team. A-Mac seems to be ready to forgive and forget with Vick, I'm not so ready. People need to learn how to do things right the first time around. Nonetheless, Eagles win.

Washington @ St. Louis: St. Louis let me down against the Raiders, so I will go against them this week. Skins beat the Rams and begin to find their team identity.

Oakland @ Arizona: Oakland still stinks, Arizona is struggling, but they are still too much for the Raiders.

San Diego @ Seattle: Seattle stinks, San Diego is usually horrible in September, but they'll beat a sorry Seahawks team. Chargers.

NY Jets @ Miami: This will be good. The Jets D is playing so great, and Miami is also playing pretty well, but won't be enough to get over the Jets dominant D. J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets!

Green Bay @ Chicago: Cutler has been better than advertised, but this will be the big test to see if he has really learned his lessons. Pack has a great D, and an amazing offense. Packers are too complete for the Bears, and take this one.

Here's hoping for a great week!

KG's Week 2 Picks

Rough opening week. 7-9. It's all good though, once we figure out who these teams really are, we'll get rolling again. A-Mac didn't fair too much better. Both my fantasy teams pretty much destroyed my opponents last week. Hoping for similar events this time around. Anywho, here we go! Week 2 picks!

Seattle @ Denver: Well, who saw Seattle coming out of nowhere to beat down the niners? That was pretty much a shock. Can they recreate that performance against their old time division rivals from back in the day when they were still part of the AFC? They have a chance to win this game, because the Broncos really aren't very good. I do think that we begin to see how inconsistent Seattle will be this year and the Broncos will win their first of the season. But it will be questionable for a bit.

Pittsburgh @ Tennessee: An interesting game. How do you gauge how good Tennessee is after beating up Oakland? I mean, come on. Pittsburgh got a hard fought win against Atlanta, mostly because of their defense. Tennessee has a more explosive offense, with the best running back in the league right now back there. I think that they will manage to grind out this one against the Steelers. Give me Tennessee.

Baltimore @ Cincinnati: Another good matchup here. Last year Cinci managed to get both games from Baltimore. This is an either way one, for me. Baltimore's defense was as we always remember it against the Jets. Hard hitting, punishing, and stingy. But will they be able to do the same thing against a Cinci team with Chad Johnson and TO? Cinci's defense played very poorly against the Pats, and Baltimore's offense is greatly improved with the addition of Anquan Boldin. I believe I've talked myself into it. I think the Ravens will take the first one from the Bengals.

Philadelphia @ Detroit: Detroit came oh so close last week. They are much better than they were, and there are a lot of questions in Philly. Either way, I have trouble picking the Lions until they show that they are able to overcome adversity. So I'll go with the Eagles.

Arizona @ Atlanta: Tough game. Arizona continues to be underrated, and they are still working to find their stride with a new quarterback in Derrick Anderson. He was very close several times with Larry Fitzgerald, and when they finally do get on the same channel together, they will be very dangerous. So, I'll take Atlanta in this one.

Miami @ Minnesota: Miami had a nice warm up game against a bad Bills team, but will have more of a challenge with Minnesota and what is always a very strong defense. Still working with a new QB and WR team, I think the Vikings will have a good bounce back performance this week and get back to 1-1.

Kansas City @ Cleveland: Cleveland continues to stink, and a handy win over San Diego last week makes the Chiefs an easy pick this week.

Tampa Bay @ Carolina: This particular division is always hard to pick because whoever is bad the previous year seems to get better the next year. Or, the teams that were good one year, are suddenly not so great the following year. Carolina, however, should still be better than Tampa. I'll take the Panthers in this one.

Buffalo @ Green Bay: Another long game for the Buffalo guys. Green Bay will run away with this one, and Aaron Rodgers will put up great numbers for my fantasy squad this week.

Chicago @ Dallas: Chicago is still not very good. Cutler is going to be harassed this week by a very good pass rush, and the Bears will lose this one.

St. Louis @ Oakland: Ahhh, this is actually kind of a tough pick. Raiders stink, and really have no up side. Rams stink, and have a very small up side. Based off of their performance against the run last week, I think the Raiders could be in some trouble. Steven Jackson may have a field day against these guys. It is because of that, that I am going to pick, that's right, the Rams!!

Jacksonville @ San Diego: San Diego had a big let down first week, which makes me happy because I hate Phillip Rivers. Some classless punk who just talks a whole bunch of trash, but really has only ever been known as a choke artist when it comes right down to it. Though I think the Chargers will be able to handle a not that great Jags team this week.

New England @ NY Jets: Could be a good one here. The Jets D is still very good, and the Pats are still quite old. Revis will be all over Moss, but the big question matchup wise with the Pats is always who is going to match up with Wes Welker. If the Jets can minimize the Welker factor, they will win. They also have shown that they know how to get pressure on Brady, and they will. I think the Jets pull this one out late.

Houston @ Washington: HUGE win for the Texans last week. They were finally able to get over the hump against the Colts. They've been so close and always managed to blow it. They have learned how to win, and what a performance by Arian Foster. I think the Texans will manage to squeak by while they are on their high!

NY Giants @ Indianapolis: The Manning Bowl! I know they didn't play very well last week, but Peyton is still Peyton. I think that the Colts bounce back from a disappointing loss to one a team they always own. Colts.

New Orleans @ San Francisco: What an egg the niners laid last week! Wow. Bad time to be running low on confidence. I think that Singletary has them ready, and they'll play a good game, but the Saints will just be too much.

Alright A-Mac! Bring on your picks!! And everybody reading, let me know about your picks!!

Why, Clinton Portis, Why!?

Early in the week, we heard a story about a female reporter, Ines Sainz, who said that she was made to feel very uncomfortable after receiving a few cat calls in the locker room while waiting to interview quarterback Mark Sanchez. The league has been looking into this, but we have managed to get to hear a very unique take on this event from well-known loud mouth moron Clinton Portis.

Now, don't get me wrong, I'll be the first to say that I have actually kind of enjoyed some of Clinton Portis's off the wall characters that he does to help amuse his teammates. That sort of thing can help other players on the team relax a little bit, maybe not worry about the focus of the media too much because they know that Portis will be more than happy to let people laugh at him for a bit. That, I enjoy. But Portis has gone well beyond what anybody can call a line of decency with the comments that he made about this Mexican television reporter. Just in case you don't want to click the link, here are the comments he made.

“For the woman, I think they make it so much that you can’t interact and you can’t be involved with athletes, you can’t talk to these guys, you can’t interact with these guys.

“And I mean, you put a woman and you give her a choice of 53 athletes, somebody got to be appealing to her. You know, somebody got to spark her interest, or she’s gonna want somebody. I don’t know what kind of woman won’t, if you get to go and look at 53 men’s packages."

There are really no words to describe this, so allow me to just go into a serious facepalm moment here. ARE YOU SERIOUS, PORTIS? I mean,how stupid can you be?! This guy really just doesn't think before he speaks, at all, does he? I mean, I think there must have been somebody on this guy after the ridiculous comments that he made defending Michael Vick and his dogfighting, but that person must have had the day off!

Ok, let's make this very clear. I am quite certain that most women can think of a much better way to spend the afternoon or evening than being in a locker room filled with gigantic naked men, many of whom have about the same IQ level as Clinton Portis. In addition, contrary to what our genius friend Portis has to say, I'm quite certain that most women don't want to just sit around and stare at "53 men's packages" all day either. Third, after this type of comment, it just makes me really happy, since I have a daughter and all, knowing that many young men look up to this individual, and will probably behave the same sort of way. This is the type of mentality that breeds the concept of "if a woman doesn't want to get harassed, she should dress in a revealing way." Look, I'm not going to deny that this woman is attractive. But to connect the fact that she's attractive and a sports reporter to automatically wanting to hook up with some random football player is really pathetic. Honestly, this just makes it sound like Portis hasn't had any conjugal visits of late, and is a bit frustrated. Did I just type that?

My apologies, but this type of thing just makes me so mad.