Well maybe I should have put off my return. I like most people went 1-3 in Wild Card Weekend. Somehow FF Rex and the Jets beat the Manning Face, Pete Carroll took his sub 500 team and beat the Defending champions, The Packers were as good as they should have been while Vick wasn't, and of course the Ravens won like they were supposed to. This has set up for the AFC Round of Hatred and the NFC's wild and crazy.
First the NFC
Seahawks at Bears- It will be a cold one and the Seahawks will be without their vaunted earthquake causing 12th Man. Jay Cutler has never won a playoff game but Mike Martz has coached a few. Matt Hasselbeck must have had a Faustian bargain to win last week so I think they lose badly this week even if Cutler spends a lot of time on his back. Bears 36-21.
Packers at Falcons- This one will be played in a Dome. No weather factor here. Aaron Rodgers had a hell of a game last week and I think he takes Matty Ice to the hole this game too. Though the Falcons have two Montana boys on their team, I will be rooting for the Pack to win. They showed they have a running game and Rodgers is better than Ryan. Packers 27-21
Ah The AFC- Roger Goodell could not have asked for a better round. Though the Colts are out, two of the best rivals in football are getting a rubber match. The Ravens-Steelers game will be interesting to watch as both teams beat each other on the road, so look for the Ravens to try to do it again. FF Rex is taking his J E T S back into Gillette where they lost the laugher during the season. The Jets are certainly fired up but they have also been trash talking the Patriots which is never a good thing. TFB is going to be mighty pumped to throw at Cromartie all day long.
Ravens-Steelers. The Ravens are playing for Ed Reed's family. Their D is still awesome. The Steelers have shown great prowess under She Said No this year but his Offensive Line is missing almost every starter. Its basically trotting out the scout team to protect him. Look to She Said No to be put in the compromising positions he likes to do to others. This game will be won in the trenches and the Ravens will come out ahead 20-17.
Jets at Patriots- The Coup de Grace of the Divisional Playoff Round. The Jets are looking to come in and unseat Super Bowl ambitions in New England. They are looking to make Revis Island relevant and make TFB pay for watching "Lombardi" instead of their game. Cromartie called Brady an asshole. This is an emotional game. FF Rex is looking to win otherwise he's going to have to go home and make more videos with the wife. Darth Hoodie is going to be prepared though and with Brandon Spikes back, the Defense is better. TFB also has Little White Jesus, The Law Firm, The Twin headed Tight End Gronknandez, and White Lightning Wes. I think the Pats beat the Jets but not in the laughfest of last time. 36-28 Pats
Next week will be interesting.
Packers at Bears- Division rivals
Ravens at Patriots-last team to beat New England at home in the playoffs.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Sunday, January 9, 2011
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.
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.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Bleacher Report!
The Sin Bin is now a part of Bleacher Report! I just published my first 2 articles on a very well known fan contributor site, the Bleacher Report. Check out my first 2 articles.
Article #1 - Broncos Need to Focus on Finding a Defensive-Minded Coach
Article #2 - The Avalanche Need to Make a Move to Bolster Blue-Line
Hopefully The Sin Bin will be going places this year!
Article #1 - Broncos Need to Focus on Finding a Defensive-Minded Coach
Article #2 - The Avalanche Need to Make a Move to Bolster Blue-Line
Hopefully The Sin Bin will be going places this year!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Avs vs. Coyotes Recap
Avs coming off of a huge win against Buffalo, that they tried to give away but managed to pull out, and needed to keep things going for them on this 5 game home stand. But, once again, the Avs came out just plain flat.
Scoring Summary:
Period 1:
Lots of shots, but the Coyotes had most of the decent chances, and the only goal of the period. Andy stopped a shot from the point, gave a small rebound, that was won by Taylor Pyatt. While kind of being bothered by the Avs d-man, Pyatt managed to backhand it over the glove of a sliding Anderson for a 1-0 lead. Andy was in pretty decent position, just a great shot that he managed to get elevated on the backhand.
No scoring again until about 19 seconds left in the game, when Pyatt put another one in the empty. Game closed out with a 2-0 win for Phoenix.
All in all, this was possibly the most boring game that I have watched in a long, LONG time. Now, that is really Phoenix's style. They are a trap team, and take advantage of turnovers. Transition is their game, and that's how they got their goal. A clear that didn't quite get out, they threw it straight at the net, and boom, suddenly they get a rebound in behind Andy. And this is the the thing that is killing the Avs. They cannot get out of their own zone. They have about 5 shifts a game where they really get buried in their own zone and just can't get out.
Then, there is Matt Hunwick. This guy has been so horrible since getting traded over to the Avs. I think the first game he played with us I was actually a little ok with him because he could skate so well, and actually did a couple decent things in his own zone. Ever since then, it has been a non-stop parade of horrible turnovers, poor defensive play, and getting beat all over the place in his own zone. I cannot, for the life of me, fathom why Joe Sacco, the Avalanche coach, has not cut this guy's ice time, or even made him a healthy scratch. Holos gives 1 away, and I see something on Twitter saying Sacco just cringed, but watch Hunwick give 5 pucks away, and he's one of the first d-men out on the next penalty kill? This makes no sense!! Sacco benched Duchene earlier this year when he wasn't getting it done. He benched Liles, and made him a healthy scratch a few times, last year when he wasn't getting the job done. He's gone to Budaj this year, when Andy has looked shakey. I don't get it. A coach that is well known for holding players who aren't playing well accountable, and allowing somebody else a chance to get the job done, who just won't take this guy off of the ice. Hunwick has no place on the penalty kill, but is out there every kill. He made about 6 really bad giveaways tonight that Andy had to bail him out on every single time. It is time for Sacco to sit him down, scratch him, send him to the minors, or just do something to tell him that what he is doing is not going to keep him on the ice. It needs to happen, or else we can get used to more losses.
Avs play next on Saturday against the Islanders. Time for the Avs to wake up again. This Western Conference is really, REALLY close from seeds 4-13. The Avs are going to find themselves out of the playoff picture really fast here if they don't start playing with some urgency. Hopefully Stewie will be returning soon
Scoring Summary:
Period 1:
Lots of shots, but the Coyotes had most of the decent chances, and the only goal of the period. Andy stopped a shot from the point, gave a small rebound, that was won by Taylor Pyatt. While kind of being bothered by the Avs d-man, Pyatt managed to backhand it over the glove of a sliding Anderson for a 1-0 lead. Andy was in pretty decent position, just a great shot that he managed to get elevated on the backhand.
No scoring again until about 19 seconds left in the game, when Pyatt put another one in the empty. Game closed out with a 2-0 win for Phoenix.
All in all, this was possibly the most boring game that I have watched in a long, LONG time. Now, that is really Phoenix's style. They are a trap team, and take advantage of turnovers. Transition is their game, and that's how they got their goal. A clear that didn't quite get out, they threw it straight at the net, and boom, suddenly they get a rebound in behind Andy. And this is the the thing that is killing the Avs. They cannot get out of their own zone. They have about 5 shifts a game where they really get buried in their own zone and just can't get out.
Then, there is Matt Hunwick. This guy has been so horrible since getting traded over to the Avs. I think the first game he played with us I was actually a little ok with him because he could skate so well, and actually did a couple decent things in his own zone. Ever since then, it has been a non-stop parade of horrible turnovers, poor defensive play, and getting beat all over the place in his own zone. I cannot, for the life of me, fathom why Joe Sacco, the Avalanche coach, has not cut this guy's ice time, or even made him a healthy scratch. Holos gives 1 away, and I see something on Twitter saying Sacco just cringed, but watch Hunwick give 5 pucks away, and he's one of the first d-men out on the next penalty kill? This makes no sense!! Sacco benched Duchene earlier this year when he wasn't getting it done. He benched Liles, and made him a healthy scratch a few times, last year when he wasn't getting the job done. He's gone to Budaj this year, when Andy has looked shakey. I don't get it. A coach that is well known for holding players who aren't playing well accountable, and allowing somebody else a chance to get the job done, who just won't take this guy off of the ice. Hunwick has no place on the penalty kill, but is out there every kill. He made about 6 really bad giveaways tonight that Andy had to bail him out on every single time. It is time for Sacco to sit him down, scratch him, send him to the minors, or just do something to tell him that what he is doing is not going to keep him on the ice. It needs to happen, or else we can get used to more losses.
Avs play next on Saturday against the Islanders. Time for the Avs to wake up again. This Western Conference is really, REALLY close from seeds 4-13. The Avs are going to find themselves out of the playoff picture really fast here if they don't start playing with some urgency. Hopefully Stewie will be returning soon
Elway is Back!
That's right, the Mile High Miracle Man is back for the Broncos! This particular come back effort isn't going to be a famed 2 minute drive, but it will pretty much seem like one of his famous 98-yard drives. This current incarnation of the Denver Broncos definitely seems like they are sitting 1st and 10 on their own 2 yard line.
Now, the question that most people are worrying about is whether or not Elway has the chops to do this sort of thing. He is the Chief Football Executive, in charge of day-to-day football operations. Not a role that you would think a Hall of Fame quarterback would be used to. Well, you may or may not know this, but John Elway has done this sort of thing, not in the NFL, but in the AFL. As owner of the Colorado Crush, he brought this team in in 2003, and managed to put a team together that won the Arena Bowl in 2005. So he knows how to manage personnel decisions from an executive's point of view.
As a former quarterback, he obviously knows about the qualities that make a winning team. It will be interesting to see the kind of personnel decisions that he will make, and his very first one is going to be the most important. Now, I grew up watching John Elway make miraculous plays, and I worshiped this guy. It is also one of my greatest childhood memories, going to a party around Christmas one of my father's clients hosted and seeing him. I remember walking up to him, I couldn't have been more than 6 years old, and his wife pointing me out to him. He took the time to shake my hand, ask my name, and to wish me a Merry Christmas. So, you'll pardon me if I'm always ready to believe in this guy, as is the whole city of Denver. They know a winner when they see one, and Elway is a winner.
At any rate, in comparison to Josh McDaniels, Elway is bound to be a veritable master mind. But that's not too hard to do. At any rate, we all sit back and await the result of Elway's great coach hunt. Welcome back to the Broncos John!
Now, the question that most people are worrying about is whether or not Elway has the chops to do this sort of thing. He is the Chief Football Executive, in charge of day-to-day football operations. Not a role that you would think a Hall of Fame quarterback would be used to. Well, you may or may not know this, but John Elway has done this sort of thing, not in the NFL, but in the AFL. As owner of the Colorado Crush, he brought this team in in 2003, and managed to put a team together that won the Arena Bowl in 2005. So he knows how to manage personnel decisions from an executive's point of view.
As a former quarterback, he obviously knows about the qualities that make a winning team. It will be interesting to see the kind of personnel decisions that he will make, and his very first one is going to be the most important. Now, I grew up watching John Elway make miraculous plays, and I worshiped this guy. It is also one of my greatest childhood memories, going to a party around Christmas one of my father's clients hosted and seeing him. I remember walking up to him, I couldn't have been more than 6 years old, and his wife pointing me out to him. He took the time to shake my hand, ask my name, and to wish me a Merry Christmas. So, you'll pardon me if I'm always ready to believe in this guy, as is the whole city of Denver. They know a winner when they see one, and Elway is a winner.
At any rate, in comparison to Josh McDaniels, Elway is bound to be a veritable master mind. But that's not too hard to do. At any rate, we all sit back and await the result of Elway's great coach hunt. Welcome back to the Broncos John!
Monday, January 3, 2011
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
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!
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!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Avs vs. Canucks Recap
Well, after a brief 2 game road trip for the Avs, they came home for their first game of the new year to play host to the hottest team in the league, the Vancouver Canucks. The Avs were fortunate to win in Edmonton, after blowing a 3 goal lead; and didn't really start playing until it was too late. Avs need to have something they haven't had in a long time against Vancouver, and that is a complete game. Coming into the game, Vancouver had not lost in regulation in their last 10 games (8-0-2).
Period 1
Avs came out with some jump and had a lot of good chances. Duchene had a good one and was really flying throughout the first period. The teams traded power plays and didn't score. The Avs got a second power play and played well towards the end of it, getting a huge chance, which Luongo stopped. Suddenly, Vancouver had a 2-on-1 going the other way. Hunwick didn't really press the issue, and there was no real support from behind. Andy seemed like he was expecting a pass, and let a pretty weak shot go straight through the 5 hole. 1-0 Canucks. Alex Boulduc, for his first NHL goal. Such a tough game, because not 10 seconds before, it very easily could have been 1-0 Avs if they had buried their chance. Avs outshot Vancouver 10-8 in the first, but entered the intermission down 1.
Period 2
Second period had a good pace to it through the first half. Avs got another PP, but didn't manage to get anything past Luongo who was is clearly on his game for this one. A couple other good chances here and there for both teams, but no goals in the first half of the period. Things really slowed down in the middle of the second, but got quite heated towards the end of the period. A couple of incidents of fisticuffs after the play. No goals in the second, but did have 9 penalties. Still 1-0 Vancouver.
Period 3
Avs came out soft in this one again, and quickly paid the price. 2 bad shifts in a row where the Avs just can't get things out of their zone, coupled with a really weird hop off a seam of the seamless glass, I know weird, right, that just popped out in front of Anderson. Mason Raymond was right there to put it up high for a 2-0 lead. Avs now in DEEP trouble, because Luongo was on his game. With a bit over 6 minutes left, Stastny managed to crack Luongo on a goal that had to be reviewed to be counted. 2-1 Canucks.
Avs realized that they needed to bust their butts at the end of the game, but just couldn't squeeze one past Luongo to save their lives. Their really good chances just didn't get on goal, a big thing that has been hurting the Avs. When they are struggling, they just don't seem to get anything on net.
Andy was good, probably could have been better on the first goal that he gave up, but really kept the Avs in the game. Nothing he could have done about that second goal, just a horrible hop that went straight to the Canucks player in front.
PK has been better. Avs killed all PPs in Edmonton and Calgary, and now against Vancouver tonight. Considering the Avs were last in the league in PK at home coming into tonight, definitely a plus.
Sedins held off the board tonight, and only had 3 shots between the two of them. That is huge, because those guys are just rolling right now. Good signs defensively, though, the Avs are still struggling hard core getting the puck out of your own zone.
Hurts even worst because the Avs are now down 8 points to the Canucks, haven't managed to beat them this year. Avs have a pretty nice January, 12 games, no back to backs, and only 2 games on the road. Avs play Buffalo next on Tuesday, gotta find a way to score. See you then.
Period 1
Avs came out with some jump and had a lot of good chances. Duchene had a good one and was really flying throughout the first period. The teams traded power plays and didn't score. The Avs got a second power play and played well towards the end of it, getting a huge chance, which Luongo stopped. Suddenly, Vancouver had a 2-on-1 going the other way. Hunwick didn't really press the issue, and there was no real support from behind. Andy seemed like he was expecting a pass, and let a pretty weak shot go straight through the 5 hole. 1-0 Canucks. Alex Boulduc, for his first NHL goal. Such a tough game, because not 10 seconds before, it very easily could have been 1-0 Avs if they had buried their chance. Avs outshot Vancouver 10-8 in the first, but entered the intermission down 1.
Period 2
Second period had a good pace to it through the first half. Avs got another PP, but didn't manage to get anything past Luongo who was is clearly on his game for this one. A couple other good chances here and there for both teams, but no goals in the first half of the period. Things really slowed down in the middle of the second, but got quite heated towards the end of the period. A couple of incidents of fisticuffs after the play. No goals in the second, but did have 9 penalties. Still 1-0 Vancouver.
Period 3
Avs came out soft in this one again, and quickly paid the price. 2 bad shifts in a row where the Avs just can't get things out of their zone, coupled with a really weird hop off a seam of the seamless glass, I know weird, right, that just popped out in front of Anderson. Mason Raymond was right there to put it up high for a 2-0 lead. Avs now in DEEP trouble, because Luongo was on his game. With a bit over 6 minutes left, Stastny managed to crack Luongo on a goal that had to be reviewed to be counted. 2-1 Canucks.
Avs realized that they needed to bust their butts at the end of the game, but just couldn't squeeze one past Luongo to save their lives. Their really good chances just didn't get on goal, a big thing that has been hurting the Avs. When they are struggling, they just don't seem to get anything on net.
Andy was good, probably could have been better on the first goal that he gave up, but really kept the Avs in the game. Nothing he could have done about that second goal, just a horrible hop that went straight to the Canucks player in front.
PK has been better. Avs killed all PPs in Edmonton and Calgary, and now against Vancouver tonight. Considering the Avs were last in the league in PK at home coming into tonight, definitely a plus.
Sedins held off the board tonight, and only had 3 shots between the two of them. That is huge, because those guys are just rolling right now. Good signs defensively, though, the Avs are still struggling hard core getting the puck out of your own zone.
Hurts even worst because the Avs are now down 8 points to the Canucks, haven't managed to beat them this year. Avs have a pretty nice January, 12 games, no back to backs, and only 2 games on the road. Avs play Buffalo next on Tuesday, gotta find a way to score. See you then.
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.
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.
Friday, December 31, 2010
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!!
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!!
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