The Last Quatro- Of the NFL
The Last Quatro. I was going to use the Final Four, but was afraid the NCAA would sue me for millions. I have no BLOG proof, but when the playoffs began I had a strong feeling that the Giants would be playing the Ravens in the Super Bowl. So far, I am on track. Eli Manning is going to win the NFL MVP (hot sports opinion) and the Ravens seem to have one more shot before a lot of their key players get too old or move on (talking to you Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs). Here is what I see happening this weekend:
AFC Championship
Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots- Tom Brady threw for six touchdowns against Denver…that is nuts. Throw in the added dimension of Aaron Hernandez (hope he’s healthy) running the ball, the Patriots offense is even more dynamic than it has been all season. Rob Gronkowski has had an unbelievable breakout season, but I do believe the Ravens will be able to cover him with athletic linebackers and heady safeties, so watch for Wes Welker to shine this week. The Patriots defense only gave up 10 points to Tim Tebow and the Broncos, which has reduced a lot of talk about this Patriot D, but it shouldn’t. This defense is beatable, and will be challenged by Ray Rice who torched the Pats back in 09. The Ravens defense is still one of the best in the league, but again, aging and will have to face one of the best QB’s of the modern era. Ray Rice is a top three NFL running back, and should be able to find some holes against a questionable defense. I’m not sure what is in Joe Flacco’s mind, but according to Ed Reed he is rattled…we shall see. Is it Brady’s time again, or does Baltimore have enough to make it to their first Super Bowl since 2000? I gotta go with what I said earlier in the playoffs….
My Pick: Baltimore 27 Patriots 24
NFC Championship
New York Giants vs. San Francisco Giants- What is this…1988? Feels like it. The Giants are the hottest team still in the playoffs, and are rallying behind a terrifying defensive line and great QB play. Hmm, sounds like the 80′s to me. Eli Manning has been great. He out-played everyone’s favorite Aaron Rodgers last week, and against Atlanta he shredded the defense for another 3 td’s and nearly 300 yards. He just might win the NFL MVP, which would not be a bad choice. While the Giants do rely on Manning’s ability to move the ball, they will have to establish SOME kind of running game just to keep the 49ers aggressive defense honest. I’m talking to you Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs. The 49ers are a surprise to me. I have to be honest, I didn’t think they would win last week against the Saints. Alex Smith has been the butt of a lot of jokes, but it isn’t his fault he has had about seven different coordinators during his career. Last weekend, Smith played like a legitimate quarterback and used his favorite target, Vernon Davis the way he should…a lot. If Smith keeps up the stellar play, this game will be close. If the San Fran offensive line can keep Smith upright, it will be close, but the Giants defense has been playing well. This will be a tough, physical game.
My Pick: New York 23 San Francisco 20
Oh, lets see what “Little Jim Mora” thinks about this one:
Let’s Go Bowling…2011-2012
Wow. Most people in the area that I live in (big 12 country) wanted to see Oklahoma State vs. LSU in the national title game, but of course, it will be Bama vs. LSU. While I was in favor of the Cowboys playing for the title, I was also worried that their high powered offense would get shut down by a great defense. Here is a look at all of the bowls that will be happening this season, all the way from the New Mexico Bowl to the BCS Title game.
New Mexico Bowl- Temple vs. Wyoming
I admit, these early bowl games are a reach for my football “knowledge”. Temple LOVES to pound the rock, while Wyoming preferes the pass. Temple’s D is ranked 15th in the nation in total defense, while the Wyoming offense is ranked 48th. Look for that to be a factor.
My Pick: Temple 30 Wyoming 17
Potato Bowl- Ohio vs. Utah State
An early favorite for my “great bowl name” competition. I think we all remember Utah State taking Auburn down to the wire in the season opener, which at least gave the Aggies some early season pub. True freshman Chuckie Keeton had a good season for a true frosh, but the team revolves around Ryan Turbin, the 10th leading rusher in the nation. Ohio brings in the 21st ranked overall offense in the nation, and plays in a tougher conference than Utah State. Should be a fun one to watch.
My Pick: Ohio 38 Utah State 34
New Orleans Bowl- San Diego State vs. Louisiana Lafayette
Aztecs’ RB Ronnie Hillman was one of the JWSB players to watch this season, and he didn’t disappoint. Hillman is third in the nation with 138 rushing yards per game, while QB Ryan Lindley does a great job at protecting the ball. LaLa’s QB Blaine Gautier (not a designer) brings in an impressive 20-5 TD to INT ratio against a mediocre SDSU defense. While this may not be a ratings buster game, it would be worth it to see Hillman showcase his skills on live t.v.
My Pick: SDSU 27 Louisiana Lafayette 23
Beef O’Brady’s Bowl- Florida International vs. Marshall
Well , there you have it, Bowl game of the year…name wise. I have to be honest, a 6-6 Marshall team vs. a 5-3 Sun Belt team hardly sounds exciting, but its always these kind of games that make for some interesting memories. The 80th ranked offense (FIU) vs. the 101st ranked offense (Marshall) should be good, right? Ok, maybe not. The best thing about this is the name of the bowl.
My Pick: FIU 24 Marshall 16
Poinsettia Bowl- TCU vs. Louisiana Tech
TCU felt like it could have been in a BCS bowl, while Louisiana Tech is coming off a great finish in the WAC, finishing 6-1. One thing TCU has been known for recently has been their defense, which was down a bit this year. Louisiana Tech has relied on two QB’s this season, Nick Isham and Colby Cameron who have thrown for more than 2,800 yards combined and 19 td’s. I think this one will be all TCU, early and often.
My Pick: TCU 40 Louisiana Tech 13
Las Vegas Bowl- Boise State vs. Arizona State
Hmm…I like this matchup a lot. I think. While ASU is just 6-6 this season, they have beat some fairly good teams in USC and Missouri. The four game losing streak is a bit confusing, especially looking at the opponents. Boise State, is Boise State. They are a good team that got knocked off by a competitive TCU team and were perhaps overlooked by the BCS. If the Broncos can make plays against a very good Sun Devil defense, they should be able to claim victory in Vegas. If for nothing else, tune in to see ASU LB Vontaze Burfict, guy is a literal beast. Boise State QB Kellen Moore won’t be in New York for the Heisman ceremony, but his numbers are sick. 3507 yards, 41 tds, 7 ints.
My Pick: Boise State 41 Arizona State 38
Hawaii Bowl- Nevada vs. Southern Miss
The last time we saw Southern Miss, they were beating up on previously unbeaten, and BCS bound Houston in the Conference USA Championship game. They take that momentum to Hawaii to face a Nevada team that is a little bit different than Houston. Nevada LOVE to run the ball (8th in nation with 251 ypg), but will mix in the pass to keep things interesting. Southern Miss QB Austin Davis has had a great year, throwing for over 3300 yards and 28 td’s. This one should be exciting, and high scoring.
My Pick: Southern Miss 45 Nevada 37
Independence Bowl- Missouri vs. North Carolina
One of the first “big name” matchups of the bowl season. Kind of. It is the Big 12 vs. ACC with two of those conferences fairly good teams. Missouri went 5-4 in a competitive 10 team Big 12, and will want to win their last game in the conference before heading off to the SEC. They are led by QB James Franklin and RB Henry Josey. As those two go, so go the Tigers. North Carolina has a great QB-RB tandem as well with Bryn Renner and Giovani Bernard, but they also throw in top flight receiver Dwight Jones who finished the season with 1119 yards receiving and 11 td’s. This should be a great game.
My Pick: North Carolina 27 Missouri 23
Little Caesars Bowl- Western Michigan vs. Purdue
$5 pizzas for EVERYONE! This game will be much like the sponsors pizza, cheap, fast, but better tasting than you remembered. Ok, that may not be true. Western Michigan brings in the 18th scoring offense in the nation (35.5 ppg) against a Big 10 defense that ranks 65th in the nation, giving up 26 ppg. Look for this one to be an “upset”.
My Pick: Western Michigan 23 Purdue 20
The Belk Bowl- Louisville vs. NC State
Wait, no seriously. The name of the bowl game is the Belk bowl. Pretty soon we will see The WalMart Bowl or The Weiners Bowl. Just dumb. ANYWAY, Louisville brings in an atrocious offense and a pretty good defense against a NC State team that isn’t great at putting up points, but young QB Mike Glennon does make good decisions. I just can’t get over that this is named The Belk Bowl.
My Pick: NC State 23 Louisville 20
Military Bowl- Toledo vs. Air Force
Not to be confused with the Armed Forces Bowl, Toledo and Air Force promises to be a high scoring, no defense at all showdown in the nation’s capital. Both teams move the ball well, and can score with the best teams in the country (both ranked in top 25). Toledo’s WR Eric Page is one of the best players you have never heard of, hauling in 112 catches for over 11oo yards and 10 tds. This one will go awhile.
My Pick: Toledo 50 Air Force 39
Holiday Bowl- Texas vs. California
Remember that one time California complained about Texas getting into a BCS bowl game over them a few years ago? Well, now is the time to settle it. haha. Texas FINALLY makes it back into a bowl game, after missing out last year. The Horns’ problem though is that they have no legit quarterback to run the show. The Horns have weapons, true freshman Malcolm Brown is expected to be 100% for the game, while WR Jaxon Shipley will also be ready to go. California has a sneaky good defense that likes to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which could cause a problem for the Horns. Look for a low scoring defensive battle.
My Pick: Texas 20 California 16
Champs Sports Bowl- Notre Dame vs. Florida State
I had a lot of hopes for Florida State this season, but they didn’t exactly impress all season. Notre Dame was a turnover machine that always seemed to shoot themselves in the foot. Both teams have excellent talent, but they need to get rid of the obvious mental mistakes. Florida State has the fourth ranked scoring defense in the country, one thing that has excelled for them this year. Look for the Seminole D to take advantage of some Irish miscues in a close close game.
My Pick: Florida State 27 Notre Dame 23
Alamo Bowl- Washington vs. Baylor
This will be a fun one to watch. Robert Griffin III might be going into the game as the Heisman winner, while Washington brings in one of the best running backs the Bears will have faced in Chris Polk. Both teams can score points, and will in the Alamo city. Look for the offenses to take the stage in this one.
My Pick: Baylor 45 Washington 35
Armed Forces Bowl- Tulsa vs. BYU
Interesting fact about Tulsa: While four losses looks pretty mediocre, all four have been against top 10 teams when the Golden Hurricane have faced them (Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Boise State and Houston). Tulsa is led by Texas transfer GJ Kinne who loves to throw the ball. BYU has a top 20 defense and a ball control offense that loves to take time off the clock. This one should be an interesting mix of two different styles.
My Pick: Tulsa 34 BYU 24
Pinstripe Bowl- Rutgers vs. Iowa State
Gritty gutty styles go to work at these two teams face off in New York City. Rutgers doesn’t have a scary offense, but WR Mohamed Sanu does stand out, raking in 109 catches for 7 td’s. Iowa State had some impressive wins this season, including the one that kept Oklahoma State out of the BCS title game. The Cyclones do it with a tough nosed offense, who better keep the ball awhile because the defense is not very good. Look for a low scoring, not so exciting affair in the Big Apple.
My Pick: Rutgers 23 Iowa State 17
Music City Bowl- Wake Forest vs. Mississippi State
Hmm..first glance at this bowl says “We won’t score any points”, but maybe I am wrong. The Bulldogs will try to control the ground using Vick Ballard, anything to keep it away from their struggling QB’s. Wake Forest prefers to throw the ball, but they aren’t THAT great at doing that. This actually might be a pretty crappy game. Sorry, just doesn’t do it for me.
My Pick: Wake Forest 13 Mississippi State 10
Insight Bowl- Oklahoma vs. Iowa
Two big name programs go at it in the desert. Oklahoma had national title inspirations at the beginning of the season, but three losses later they find themselves in a pre January bowl game. The loss of WR Ryan Broyles was a huge hit, but the defense has been to blame for most of their losses. Iowa brings in a trio of talented playmakers that COULD give the Sooners trouble, QB James Vandenburg loves targeting WR Marvin McNutt (12 tds) and RB Marcus Coker brings in over 1300 yards and 15 td’s into the matchup. Iowa has been under the radar most of the year, thanks to a .500 record in the Big 10, but watch out in this one.
My Pick: Oklahoma 39 Iowa 34
Car Care Bowl of Texas- Texas A&M vs. Northwestern
This game has GOT to scare the Aggies. A known giant-killer in Northwestern who loves to throw the ball and can put up big numbers. Sounds a lot like A&M. The pre-season top 10 Aggies have been a pretty big disappointment this season, finding a way to lose in a myriad of ways. Dan Persa has come back this season to have a solid year, but nothing like we expect from the team leader. Both teams are looking for their first bowl win in awhile, 10 years for the Aggies and like 60 for the Wildcats. Look for a lot of points, with Texas A&M just edging out the Wildcats in front of the Texan crowd.
My Pick: Texas A&M 42 Northwestern 37
Sun Bowl- Georgia Tech vs. Utah
I love watching Georgia Tech play. The ol option attack is alive and well at a large school, that plays in a pretty big conference. The key to their attack, are the athletes they have at the key positions. Obviously, the Yellowjackets love to run the ball with five players with more than 400 yards rushing. Utah has been a BCS worthy team over the past few years, but fell back just a bit in their first year in the Pac-12. It was a good move for them, and they will be looking to win their first bowl in their new conference. The problem with this matchup, is Georgia Tech’s ability to keep the ball, and Utah’s inability to move the ball (ranked 110th in total offense). Should be low scoring, but the Yellowjackets have the advantage.
My Pick: Georgia Tech 30 Utah 20
Liberty Bowl- Cincinnati vs. Vanderbilt
Another ho hum game. A good indication that the SEC is a little overrated, Vanderbilt won two games in conference (lost six), and did not look great doing it. The Commodores did get a push by beating bowl-bound Wake Forest in the last game of the season. Vandy struggles throwing the ball, but does have a fairly good back in Zac Stacy. Cincinnati is led by Zach Callaros, who has literally been there for 8 years it seems. In all honesty, I just want to see Munchie Legaux get in the game. Not sure what will happen during this one, but it will be one of the few I may forget to watch. Ugly.
My Pick: Cincinnati 31 Vanderbilt 23
Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl- UCLA vs. Illinois
Illinois literally stumbled, fell, died there way into this one. After winning their first six games of the season and being ranked in the top 25, Illinois promptly LOST six straight and is now sitting at .500 for the season. Unbelievable. UCLA played in the Pac-12 championship (yeah, I know) because of USC’s inability to stay out of trouble. This one promises to be an ugly game, hard hitting, and maybe, just maybe Illinois will pull it off.
My Pick: UCLA 26 Illinois 20
Chik-Fil-A Bowl- Virginia vs. Auburn
This has to be my favorite bowl. I hope every player gets free chicken nuggets and ChikFilA sauce. Yum. Auburn won it all last year, and as expected, fell off this season. One BIG/HUGE reason? No more Cam Newton. The Tigers are ranked 104th in total offense, and the once vaunted defense is ranked 78th overall. Hardly impressive. Virginia struggled scoring points this season, but did have some impressive wins against the likes of Florida State, Georgia Tech and Southern Miss. Look for a slug fest in this one, with the team making the fewer amount of turnovers taking the win.
My Pick: Virginia 23 Auburn 20
TicketCity Bowl- Houston vs. Penn State
One of the feel good stories of the year versus the most horrific stories the NCAA has ever seen. Sounds great. Case Keenum and Houston had a chance to play in a BIG TIME BCS bowl this season, but were unable to beat S. Miss in the Conference USA championship. They will try and take out their aggression on a great defensive Penn State team. If the all out passing attack from the Cougs can get going, they should win, but we have seen great defenses stop great offenses time and time again in bowl matchups. Sidenote, Case Keenum has over 5,000 yards passing and two receivers have over 1,000 yards. Don’t forget though, the Cougs feature two RB’s with over 700 yards rushing. We shall see what happens.
My Pick: Houston 33 Penn State 31
Outback Bowl- Georgia vs. Michigan State
The last time we saw these two teams, they were losing in their respective conference championship games. Michigan State is a good team, led by all-conference QB Kirk Cousins and a stellar defense. Georgia has a lot of young talent and loves to play physical on the defensive side of the ball as well. Both teams rank in the top 20 in scoring defense, top 5 in total defense, and top 11 in passing defense. Needless to say, this one will be a bull fight.
My Pick: Michigan State 24 Georgia 17
Capital One Bowl- Nebraska vs. South Carolina
South Carolina was a lot of peoples pick to sneak out of the SEC and play for the national title, a lot like Auburn did last year. Well, didn’t happen. A promising schedule turned tricky with losses to Auburn and Arkansas. The Gamecocks still have big time playmakers though, with Alshon Jeffrey standing out with the absence of stud RB Marcus Lattimore. Nebraska features a run first philosophy with athletic QB Taylor Martinez still running the show. This will be another slugfest on the field, with both teams playing a physical style of football.
My Pick: South Carolina 31 Nebraska 27
Gator Bowl- Florida vs. Ohio State
Matchup of big name programs that are on some downward slides recently. The main thing to look at is the quarterback play, Ohio State has a young star in the making while Florida has one that doesn’t do much at all. That could be the difference in this one. Anyone remember the last time these two played, I am sure it wasn’t that great.
My Pick: Ohio State 30 Florida 21
The Rose Bowl- Wisconsin vs. Oregon
The grandaddy of them all. And I mean the bowl, not this matchup. Although, it should be a good one. Both teams LOVE to run the ball, even though they do it in completely different styles. Wisconsin likes to line it up, pound it straight ahead with Heisman contender Montee Ball (1759 yards, 32 tds, 20 recs 6 tds). When he isn’t getting the rock, Russell Wilson is throwing it around the field to a number of different weapons. We all saw Oregon lose the national title last year to Auburn, and then promptly lose to LSU to begin the season this year. Oregon is playing well now though, and hopes RB Lamichael James can match Ball in everything he does. Don’t miss this game.
My Pick: Wisconsin 38 Oregon 33
The Fiesta Bowl- Oklahoma State vs. Stanford
Most pundits who have a voice on t.v. or newspaper thought that Oklahoma State was not deserving of the #2 ranking in the BCS, and no shot at the national title. That is unfortunate. While I didn’t really believe in this team most of the year, they proved to be a very good team who had a chance at BCS glory. We all know about the offense, led by Justin Blackmon and Brandon Weeden, but don’t overlook guys like Josh Cooper and Joseph Randle, who will need to make plays in this big showdown. Stanford also only had one loss this season, a tough one to Oregon. Andrew Luck seems to be next years #1 overall pick in the draft, and for good reason. Luck makes quick decisions and doesn’t make too many mistakes. The Oklahoma State pass defense is ranked 102nd in the nation, going against one of the best QB’s there is. How will it turn out?
My Pick: Stanford 35 Oklahoma State 31
The Sugar Bowl- Michigan vs. Virginia Tech
This is the controversy bowl. While these big name schools had great seasons, teams like Boise State, Michigan State and TCU all thought they should have gotten a spot somewhere in the BCS. Even so, this game will probably be entertaining. Everyone knows about Denard Robinson at Michigan, something the Hokies defense is getting ready for. Both teams have top 20 defenses, but that may be a little misleading in this one. David Wilson, the Hokies running back has over 1600 yards rushing and 9 td’s, while QB Logan Thomas had a great breakout season for Va Tech. Look for both QB’s to shine in this one.
My Pick: Michigan 33 Virginia Tech 24
The Orange Bowl- West Virginia vs. Clemson
Orange you glad this is not a bad matchup? That was bad. Clemson had a great season under Dabo Swinney, led by a bunch of youngsters who surprised a lot of teams, but faltered in some winnable games. Tajh Boyd, sophomore QB from Clemson had a near Heisman worthy campaign, an award he may considered for in the next few years. His favorite target was freshman standout Sammy Watkins. Watkins showed he great speed and talent from day one, and helped Clemson to their best season in a long time. West Virginia wasn’t featured too many times in big name games this season, and when they were, they lost to LSU. This team is good though, and they love to throw the ball. Geno Smith has finally emerged as a stud, throwing for nearly 4000 yards and 25 td’s. Look for a high scoring, back and forth game.
My Pick: Clemson 44 West Virginia 38
The Cotton Bowl- Kansas State vs. Arkansas
Talk about a surprise, the old man in Manhattan had his Wildcats competing for a Big 12 championship, and gained respect all over the nation. Kansas State features dual threat QB Collin Klein, kind of, he almost ran for more yards than he threw for. He is still a dangerous threat though out of the backfield. The Wildcats are led on defense by all Big 12er Arthur Brown. They will need all the help they can get against a very good Arkansas team. Arkansas flirted with a national title berth, but couldn’t get past LSU. The offense is one of the best in the nation, while the defense gives up a modest 23 points a game. If Klein can find running lanes, the Wildcats will keep this one close, if he is shut down, this one could get ugly.
My Pick: Arkansas 30 Kansas State 20
BBVA Compass Bowl- SMU vs. Pitt
Why do we play crappy bowls after all of the good bowls? It USED to be that all “so so” bowls were in December, all the “good” ones were in January. Come on! Anyway, this one will be alright, but again, we just watched Oklahoma State vs Stanford people. I have no idea what will happen, will I care? I will say this, both QB’s in this one have a 1-1 TD to INT ratio. Let’s say this, whoever makes the fewest mistakes, thats who wins.
My Pick: SMU 23 Pitt 17
Godaddy.com Bowl- Northern Illinois vs. Arkansas State
I’ll give you ONE reason to watch this stellar matchup (catch the sarcasm?). Chandler Harnish. The Northern Illinois QB is the BEST player you have NEVER heard of. Harnish has 2,942 yards passing, 26 tds, 5 ints and 1382 yards rushing with 11 td’s. He’s this years Cam Newton, and I am not even kidding. He SAVES this game from being the “game nobody cares about”.
My Pick: Chandler Harnish 40 Arkansas State 22
The BCS Title Game- LSU vs. Alabama
Doesn’t it seem weird that all Alabama has to do is win and they are national champs? I mean, I know this is the way we have set it up, but LSU has already beaten them once, Alabama didn’t have to play in the SEC championship game, didn’t win their conference. Just doesn’t seem fair. They sound like the Florida Marlins, never won a conference championship (I know Bama has) and has won two world series titles. Just wanted to throw that out there. Anyway, the first matchup was either really UGLY or really GREAT, depending on what kind of football you like. As “bitter” as I am about watching a rematch, between two SEC teams that I DON’T like, this game will be good. These two teams have NFL talent all OVER their defensive units, and it showed the first time they played. The key this time around will be offense. If either one can put points on the board, that will take a lot of pressure off of their respective defenses. I hate to say it, but I think LSU has the advantage again in this one.
My Pick: LSU 20 Alabama 17
NFL Awesome Rankings #2:
It has been awhile since our last Awesome Rankings, but I wanted to let things settle down before sending another one out. Granted, I waited a LITTLE long to release the second one, but here we go:
1. Green Bay Packers (12-0): Of COURSE they are number one. Aaron Rodgers is on pace to break every career NFL passing record in ONE SEASON…seems that way anyway. It will be interesting to see what happens with the injury to Charles Woodson though, he’s a big part of that defense.
2. New Orleans Saints (9-3): I don’t believe it either. If the defense can stop anyone from scoring more than, lets say 20 points, this team will win a lot more games. Drew Brees and the offense are hitting on all cylinders right now. They have also won four in a row, playing great.
3. New England Patriots (9-3): Also have won four straight games, but again, the defense is the question mark. A BIG question mark, they currently rank last in the league in total D. Ouch.
4. Baltimore Ravens (9-3): The Ravens have already blasted the Steelers twice this year, a distinction that puts them in at #4 ahead of the boys from Pittsburgh. The defense is still great, and the offense is starting to shine with Ray Rice leading the way. Dangerous team.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-3): Winners of three in a row, and somehow they seem to be “under the radar”. That is just fine with them, this team is a playoff team and will cause problems for anyone they face. Of course the defense is the best in the league, but these young receivers make tons of plays downfield.
6. Dallas Cowboys (7-5): Hahaha…maybe I am drinking the Kool-Aid. I just know that this team has a CHANCE to be good, and should be a playoff team this year. A few dumb mistakes (which I know are a part of football) are the only thing from keeping this team from being one of the NFC’s best. Demarcus Ware is a complete stud that eats puppies for breakfast. Yikes.
7. San Francisco 49ers (10-2): Yeah, maybe they shouldn’t be ranked this low. I am a little hesitant to put them in the top 5, but the 49ers keep proving people wrong. Patrick Willis is banged up, the definite leader of this team, but Alex Smith and Frank Gore are doing enough to keep this team going in the right direction. They have already clinched a playoff spot too.
8. Houston Texans (9-3): Too low? I know a FEW of my readers who will think so. They have had their best season in franchise history, but the problem is they have lost Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson. TJ Yates played well in his first start, but there is a difference between one start and starting in the playoffs. They have a great defense, but can it get them very far in the playoffs? We shall see.
9. Detroit Lions (7-5): Wow, what a difference a few weeks makes. Not too long ago, people were ready to crown them as Super Bowl champs, now this team is fighting for a playoff spot. The Lions have tons of talent, but they seem to have problems keeping their emotions contained. Watch for the return of Suh to energize this team.
10. Denver Broncos (7-5): The HOTTEST team in the NFL is being led by the most polarizing figure in sports. It’s true, Tim Tebow is a winner. I have never been a fan of his, but it is amazing to watch this team fight each week. You have to give this team credit for not giving up, and taking advantage of a bad conference.
Just Missed the List: New York Jets, Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons
College Football: Thanksgiving Week
This is easily one of my favorite times of the year, Thanksgiving! My family always goes to the beautiful Hill Country of Texas and spends a few days with close friends and about 70 family members. We eat, we play, we shop, we eat, we have fun and we watch football. The room is usually divided into Burnt Orange and maroon during one of the games, bet you can guess which one. Always a fun week, here are my picks for one of the best weekends of the year.
Texas @ Texas A&M: The Lone Star Showdown could be shut down for awhile, which would be a shame. This is easily one of the top rivalries in the land, and has been played 117 times with Texas leading the all time series 75-37-5. This year, the game is a toss up with both teams struggling in different phases of the game. Texas is having trouble scoring while the Aggies are having trouble stopping others from scoring. While I think this one will be close, I think the Aggies have an advantage being at home…unfortunately.
My Pick: Texas A&M 23 Texas 15
Arkansas @ LSU: The big one of the weekend. It’s another SEC showdown that features two of the top teams in the nation. I didn’t think LSU would go undefeated this season, so I am surprised they are STILL without a loss. This could be the week, which would throw a HUGE wrench into the BCS picture.
My Pick: LSU 20 Arkansas 16
Ohio State @ Michigan: This game is a classic rivalry, but this years version has as much excitement as a Thanksgiving Day dog show on NBC. (I don’t know, just saw a commercial). The main question in this one is if Urban Meyer will announce that he is the new coach of the Buckeyes during halftime or not.
My Pick: Michigan 30 Ohio State 20
Alabama @ Auburn: This game last year was a classic and is always one of the best rivalry games in the nation, if not THE best. Alabama is still very much in the BCS championship picture, but needs to win at Auburn in order to keep those dreams alive. Auburn would like nothing more than to ruin the Crimson Tide’s plans and send them home with crushed dreams.
My Pick: Alabama 23 Auburn 10
Clemson @ South Carolina: For some reason, I always picture a huge fight happening during this game. Didn’t that happen just a few years ago? Clemson is trying to finish up this season like they started it, by winning games. South Carolina has been a little bit of a disappointment this season, and will try and get one more marquee win. Should be a good one.
My Pick: South Carolina 33 Clemson 27
Upset Pick of the Week: Tulsa 38 Houston 35- This could be the week Houston FINALLY loses.
Game Nobody Cares About: Albany 42 Stony Brook 20- Are you kidding me? This is NCAA playoff football, EVERYONE CARES.
College Football: Week 11.
I have missed way too much football! Let’s just get right down to this:
Virginia Tech @ Georgia Tech: Big ACC matchup between two teams that are kind of under the radar. Sure, I picked Georgia Tech to upset Clemson a few weeks ago, but not much is known about the Yellowjackets other than their unique offense. This IS a matchup of two of the top 25 teams according to the BCS rankings, GT is #21 and VT is #10. Look for both defenses to do enough to keep their teams in this game, should be a good one on Thursday night.
My Pick: Georgia Tech 24 Virginia Tech 20
Nebraska @ Penn State: Hard to believe what is going on at Penn State. It is sickening. I don’t think Paterno or any of the coaches or administrators should still be around for this game. Just my opinion. I will be amazed if Nebraska doesn’t hang 50 on this distracted Penn State team. Actually, I don’t even care if they do.
Oklahoma State @ Texas Tech: Normally I would call this thing a blowout, but the Red Raiders showed the college football world that they CAN knock off a top team, just ask the Sooners. A couple of things to look out: Texas Tech has the 11th ranked total offense in the nation, while the Cowboys have the 110th ranked total defense. 110th?!?! That is BOUND to catch up with them soon. This could be the week, but I think I may side with the Cowboys on this one.
My Pick: Oklahoma State 38 Texas Tech 35 (would NOT surprise me to see Tech win)
Miami @ Florida State: Remember when this game was THE game of the weekend? I do, but we aren’t really there anymore. The Seminoles are starting to play great football after losing three in a row, while the Hurricanes just can’t seem to find the “consistent” button on their controls. The Seminole defense is legit, and will/should control this game.
Florida State 27 Miami 17
TCU @ Boise State: This was a great game in the past, but Boise is on another level right now, and TCU is not as good as they have been, which sounds silly with only two losses this season, but that is the stratosphere they put themselves in. This one could be close for a half, but Boise State will pull away late and stay in the National Title hunt.
My Pick: Boise State 40 TCU 23
Alabama @ Mississippi State: While this game probably looks like a 45-13 type game, it has a chance to be a stunner. I have attended a MSU vs. Bama game in Starkville, and it did not turn out well for the Crimson Tide. Granted, that year was 2007 and Alabama hadn’t reached its current state, but it was still a stunner. Could it happen again? Probably not.
My Pick: Alabama 38 Mississippi State 19
Oregon @ Stanford: The big one. Andrew Luck and Stanford have moved up the BCS rankings week by week, but no one really trusts if they are a top notch team. Oregon will prove to be a great measuring stick of the Cardinal and where they are as a legit national power. While looking at this game, you would think there would be MAJOR offensive fireworks, but there is always room for a let down. Oregon has flown a bit under the radar since its opening loss to #1 LSU, but they Ducks are just as dangerous as ever. Can’t wait to see this one.
My Pick: Stanford 33 Oregon 31
Upset Pick of the Week: Washington State 29 Arizona State 24- Hey, why not?
Game Nobody Cares About: Humboldt State 33 Western Oregon 27- This one is for the GNAC Championship. Are you KIDDING me?
College Football, Week 9:
It’s been too long! I made a promise long ago to my faithful followers that no matter what, I would have something posted during college football season. Well, it has been two weeks. With work, school and the World Series, things have been a BIT crazy. My apologies. There have been some great games that I have missed, including Oklahoma and Wisconsin falling from the ranks of the undefeateds. Here are my picks for this weeks action, which promises to be good.
Missouri @ Texas A&M: May not make a blip on the radar of top college football games this week, but it will be a competitive games. They may change the name to the “Not Really in the Big 12 Anymore” Bowl. One things the Aggies do well is run the ball with Michael and Gray, which will give the Tigers fits.
My Pick: Texas A&M 33 Missouri 27
Baylor @ Oklahoma State: I know I have said this before and been dead wrong, but this game will be a shootout. Neither team can stop other teams from scoring, so we may see a combined 90+ points. Robert Griffin III and the Bears started the season on a roll, but realized that the Big 12 is a lot tougher than fans realize. Oklahoma State is sitting at #3 in the BCS rankings, their highest ranking ever. I give them the edge because of Blackmon and the home crowd.
My Pick: Oklahoma State 47 Baylor 39
Oklahoma @ Kansas State: Quick, who’s ranked higher? If you guessed the surprise Wildcats, you would be right. No one thought the Wildcats would be the team with no losses when these two teams met, but they have played well so far this season knocking off Baylor and Miami respectively. Oklahoma is coming off a VERY tough loss to Big 12 rival Texas Tech in which the Sooners defense was rocked. Watch for Oklahoma to take out some frustrations on this good, but not great K State team.
My Pick: Oklahoma 40 Kansas State 23
Florida vs. Georgia: The World’s Largest Cocktail Party is always entertaining, even though both teams are down from where they normally are. Florida has won 11 out of the last 14 meetings, but this year promises to be a toss up. The Bulldogs have some nice young playmakers, including fresman RB Isaiah Crowell who has totaled over 600 yards rushing this season. Florida has more speed, and needs a signature win this season. Why not start now?
My Pick: Florida 24 Georgia 20
Upset Pick of the Week: Georgia Tech 36 Clemson 35- The Yellowjackets can score, and I think they sneak up on the Tigers at home. Should be a fun one to watch.
Game Nobody Cares About: Culver Stockton 17 Lindenwood University 23- The Wildcats losing streak reaches 8 games.
World Series Prediction Post.
PAIN.
GOOD LUCK RANGERS!
College Football: Week 6
I have not had a lot of time to write this week, so I will make these quick. Tomorrow is a fun day of college football, but alas, I will not see any of it!
Oklahoma vs Texas: The big one. I love this game, because of the history, the players and the State Fair of Texas. Texas has impressed me this season, but I think Oklahoma has a LITTLE more experience and will get a turnover late.
My Pick: Oklahoma 27 Texas 23
Florida @ LSU: We saw what Florida did against Alabama, and I think it could be more of the same. LSU is actually fairly good. Haha.
My Pick: LSU 30 Florida 20
Auburn @ Arkansas: This was a fun one last year. Both teams have losses this season, but they are still looking at major bowls and an outside chance at the SEC. Should be high scoring.
My Pick: Auburn 33 Arkansas 30
Ohio State @ Nebraska: The “all name” bowl. What I mean is this, they have strong histories but both are coming off bad losses. Give me Nebraska.
My Pick: Nebraska 24 Ohio State 17
Upset Pick of the Week: Maryland 40 Georgia Tech 35- The Yellojackets score a lot, but have you SEEN those Maryland uni’s?
Game Nobody Cares About: Northland Community and Technical College 25 Vermillion Community College 10
2011 NFL Awesome Rankings: #1
I tried not to jump the gun and start ranking teams right out of the gate. I DID do a pre-season ranking and am noticing some BIG TIME problems with it. Haha, of course, I thought Peyton Manning was going to play ok? DON’T JUDGE ME! Now that week four is complete, we are starting to get an idea of who the top teams in the NFL are. Here is the first JWSBNAR of the year:
1. Green Bay Packers (4-0): Yesterday before I wrote this blog, the Pack would have been #1, but Aaron Rodgers decided to go NUTS and score my fantasy team 50+ points. They are good, kind of like Neo after he found out he was “The One” on the Matrix. They struggled into the playoffs last year, this year they are the elite team in the NFL.
2. Detroit Lions (4-0): I wouldn’t have ranked this team this high last week, but the last two weeks this team has shown the ability to come back from huge deficits. Thats good, and bad. Why the big deficits? The offense doesn’t run the ball that well, but Calvin Johnson makes up for that with his complete badass-ness. November 24th they take on the #1 Packers, cue Bart Scott (CANT WAIT!).
3. New England Patriots (3-1): The loss against the Bills was tough, but this team is definitely a playoff favorite. Tom Brady is playing lights out, but the defense is a major concern, especially since Jerod Mayo may be out awhile. If they can keep scoring a lot, they should be fine….but it could be rocky.
4. New Orleans Saints (3-1): Quietly having a great season. The offense, as usual is high scoring and fun to watch. The key, like it was when they won it all in 2009, is the defense. They are ranked in the middle of the pack in the major categories, which needs to improve.
5. Baltimore Ravens (3-1): What a COMPLETE destruction of the Jets in week four. The “old” defense scored three td’s and made Mark Sanchez look like a rag doll. Ray Rice might be the most complete back in the league right now, he does it all.
6. Houston Texans (3-1): Sneaking in just before the beat up Chargers. The Texans are the favorite to win the AFC South, and are very glad Arian Foster is back. His 100+ yards against the Steelers was a site for sore Texan eyes. Houston will have to see how Andre Johnson is after he hurt his hammy this past weekend.
7. San Diego Chargers (3-1): Usually this team is 1-3 in September/October and then gets better in December, but this time its a little different. Philip Rivers hasn’t been the league MVP like many thought he would numbers wise, but he has been a huge part of his teams early success. Mike Tolbert and Ryan Matthews have been a great 1-2 punch as well. Once again, the defense is a top 10 unit.
8. Tennessee Titans (3-1): Surprise team of the year so far. Chris Johnson hasn’t been great, yet, but Matt Hasselbeck has been quite the addition to the Titan offense. Oh, and remember when the Titans defense was one of the best in the league? Well, they’re back.
9. Buffalo Bills (3-1): I enjoy a good cinderella story just like everyone else, but this team COULD be on borrowed time. Ryan Fitzpatrick is very early MVP candidate, and the defense has been very opportunistic. Tough schedule left, let’s see how they handle it.
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-1): The game wasn’t pretty this week against the lowly Colts, but I was impressed with Legarrette Blount. Dude is big, fast, and mean as a badger. He is definitely the “best player in the league who once punched a Boise State player on national t.v.” Josh Freeman is a gamer too.
Just Missed: Washington Redskins, Dallas Cowboys, Oakland Raiders
The Bottom Four:
Indianapolis Colts: Wow, Peyton Manning really IS that good.
Minnesota Vikings: I thought Donovan McNabb was going to be ok with them this year, I was wrong…so far.
St. Louis Rams: Sam Bradford is having a bad sophomore campaign.
Miami Dolphins: Do you think they STILL want Kyle Orton? They need a defense…ANY defense.
College Football: Week 5
Well last week was fun wasn’t it? I was off to a HOT start in the picks, but my Upset Pick of the Week was WAY off and even the game nobody cares about was wrong. I ended up 4-3. That UGoTW is tough though. This week promises to be a great one in college football. We have tons of marquee match ups that will have major bowl and championship implications, here are the ones I will be watching:
Arkansas vs. Texas A&M (in Arlington): Both teams had GIGANTIC games last week, and both were on the losing end. Everyone is seeing this as a “future SEC match up” but I am seeing it as two teams who are desperately trying to get back in the win column. Even though this one is at 11 am, it might just be the best game of the day. As always, the defenses will be the key to the game.
My Pick: Arkansas 36 A&M 31
Mississippi State @ Georgia: When you get to the SEC playing each other, it is always fun. While saying teams that are 2-2 are facing off is a fun match up seems a little odd, this game will be. Georgia is still trying to make a name for themselves in the SEC and MSU is trying to do the same. This one could be ugly, but entertaining.
My Pick: Georgia 20 Mississippi State 16
Auburn @ South Carolina: Oh man, ANOTHER great SEC game. Auburn’s amazing win streak ended a couple of weeks ago in Clemson, but this team is still in the conference crown hunt. South Carolina is undefeated, but they have not been that impressive the last two weeks on the offensive side of the ball. Marcus Lattimore is a complete stud that will give the Tigers D fits, but Auburn will be able to counter with super soph Michael Dyer. This will come down to the end….
My Pick: Auburn 30 South Carolina 29
Baylor @ Kansas State: Someone will leave with their first loss of the season. Will it be Baylor who has knocked off TCU and blasted two other teams or Kansas State who is coming off an impressive/statement win over Miami. KSU is ranked #6 in total defense and will not back down against a high powered Bear offense. This is your “under the radar great game of the day” game. RGIII is FUN to watch, if you haven’t seen him, tune in.
My Pick: Baylor 27 Kansas State 23
Alabama @ Florida: This game was much better a few years ago, but it still promises to one to watch. Florida has made Gator fans forget an awful 2010, starting off 4-0 this season. Coach Muschamp may not know what a Padawan is, but he sure does know defense. The Gators have the 5th ranked defense in the nation and a speedy offense. We all know about Bama. Great defense with a hard nosed and sneaky good offense. Could it be “upset” time in The Swamp? I think I may go there.
My Pick: Florida 33 Alabama 31
Nebraska @ Wisconsin: The new guys vs the defending champs. Sounds like a Disney movie waiting to happen…or not. QB Russell Wilson has been great with the Badgers so far, having them thinking of a national title shot. Nebraska has been winning games, but the defense is not great, and will be challenged by a really good Wisconsin offense. Russell Wilson and the strong Badger running game will be too much for the Huskers.
My Pick: Wisconsin 35 Nebraska 29
Upset Pick of the Week: Clemson 28 Virginia Tech 24- This is a game to watch, and probably won’t be considered too big of an upset.
Game Nobody Cares About: CSU-Pueblo 40 Chadron State 20- The only reason I picked this game is because CSU-P’s mascot is the Thunderwolves. THUNDERWOLVES!
