Beckham in America...Does Anyone Care?

The man who has been asked to make soccer mainstream in the United States has finally come to town. Beckham arrived in the U.S. this week with his former-Spice-Girl wife Victoria, and is scheduled to play his first game this Saturday night against Scottish Champion Celtic. And while an ankle injury (50/50 change of playing) may keep him out of the game, nothing can keep him from being the talk of the town.

Beckham is a worldwide celebrity. His picture is plastered throughout magazines as if he were a Hollywood big shot. From sports to modeling, this guy just seems to dabble in everything. You can find his picture in all of the magazines because he makes them sell. His picture sells, his words sell, and his name sells. But for a soccer star to come to America to attract the less-than-pseudo fans (ignorant fans if you ask me, but then again I love the sport already) of America, now that takes real selling power.

If Beckham is able to sell soccer to the sports fan of the United States, that would certainly be something special. This is a country of high scoring sports. Basketball teams score between 90 and 100 points per game; football teams put up points in large numbers too, although maybe if soccer gave out 7 points each time a goal was scored and 3 points for every possession that couldn't score then people would like it better.

Baseball teams are building new stadiums that are more like little league fields to enable their teams to hit more homeruns, and therefore score more. All the steroids the players take certainly puts up numbers too. The NHL took scoring to a whole new level. They actually changed the rules of the sport to increase the scoring in games in an attempt to draw fans to the arenas (personally, I liked the game better before the rules changed).

Soccer is a great sport, played by more people worldwide than any other. It combines speed, skill, toughness, and overall talent more than any other sport. A soccer player may not be as strong as an NFL lineman, but every soccer player has to have a combination of all of these abilities to play…not just excel in one area. But the people of this country don’t seem to care. Their attitude is of a hungry baby. I want what I want, and I want it now! They want the power (homeruns), the speed (wide receivers), and the talent (see the buzz over Kevin Durant)…so one would think they would appreciate a sport where the players have all of those qualities instead of just one.

David Beckham is here to change those attitudes, but will anyone notice?

NBA Picks - East Finals

As we get closer to the NBA Finals, I am hoping to finally have some more plays. I have been undefeated so far in the playoffs, and tonight I look to continue my streak. Aren’t you glad I’m nice enough to share my winning ways?

Tonight’s game between Cleveland and Detroit should be a very tough, hard-fought game. The Cavaliers are looking to close out the Pistons and advance to the Finals. The Pistons meanwhile are looking to just stay alive and get the chance to play Game 7 back home in Detroit.

If this sounds familiar to some of you, that’s because this same scenario played out last year…Cavs up 3-2, coming home for Game 6. If you remember, it was the savvy Pistons who won Game 6 on the road, and then returned home to finish the job. This year though, things look a little different. Why? LeBron James, that’s why.

Bottom line here is that Cleveland is going to close this series out today. Detroit has had their time, and now it’s time for LeBron and co. to step up. I say they do it today. My money is going on the Cavs (-1.5) today. I would suggest doing the same with yours.

How Sweet It Is...

As a fan of the Philadelphia 76ers, I was less than thrilled with their inability to move up in the NBA Draft Lottery this past season. I had held out hope, though our team refused to tank the way some others did (Boston, Milwaukee, etc.), that maybe Lady Luck would come our way and reward my beloved 76ers for staying true to the purity of the game. Alas, it was not to be.

As I awoke the following morning though, I was strangely happy. My team hadn’t moved up at all, but I felt this sense of satisfaction I simply couldn’t explain…until I looked over the lottery again. Every basketball fan knows this is a deep draft, but every fan also knows that if you don’t get one of the top two picks, you are missing out on something special. Greg Oden and Kevin Durant are both “can’t miss” NBA prospects.

So has anyone figured out why I was still happy even though my team had missed out? I'll end the suspense - it’s because the Celtics didn’t get a top 2 pick! I am also glad to see the Bucks didn’t get one either, because the way they tanked at the end of the year really just proves why the draft lottery needs to be changed. I have always been a purist, no matter which sport I am following, and tanking like that just makes me sick (though I did make some easy cash betting against those teams that were obviously tanking).

Anyhow, back to the Celtics horrible loss. As bad as it was knowing that my team was giving up the chance to get one of the top prospects by winning games at the end of the season, it was rewarding to know that the Celtics had tanked and still won’t get one of those players either (and I don’t want to hear Celtic fans out there whining that this should have made up for losing Tim Duncan ten years ago...get over it!).

All 76ers fans know to hate the Celtics. All those big games from the 1980s (you know, back when both teams were actually good at the same time) live on inside the hearts of both teams' fans. Losing out on the chance to move up in the lottery to take Oden or Durant was bad enough, but if the Celtics had won the lottery, that would have been 10 times worse. To see one of these top talents going to a hated rival with the chance to turn around the Celtics, while we stayed true to the game and will probably continue to suck for at least another year, would have been just too much.

So rejoice fans of Portland and Seattle. Your team has earned the chance to turn itself into an instant playoff contender with a top 2 selection in next month’s draft. Portland should be very happy to get Greg Oden (likely the top pick) to team with Brandon Roy (last season’s Rookie of the Year, shown above after the Blazers won the lottery) and LaMarcus Aldridge (the # 2 overall pick last year) for the next 8-10 years. Seattle fans know that the pick of Kevin Durant could likely save their beloved Sonics from a move to Oklahoma City or Las Vegas. The pick of Durant also might be enough to keep free-agent-to-be Lewis from leaving town. Combine those two players with Ray Allen and a decent point guard, and you could be looking at a team who will rival Phoenix for most points scored.

Philadelphia fans should rejoice as well. Sure, we lost the lottery...but so did the Celtics. It certainly sucks that we will not be getting one of those top players, but at least they will be playing out West where they can’t hurt us too much. Perhaps even more assuring is the fact that the Celtics still suck more than we do! Ah, the joy of small comforts.

Oh Ricky...

Oh Ricky...here we go again. Ricky Williams has failed another drug test. Williams, who sat out last season because of a suspension (guess what for), was going to be eligible to apply for reinstatement to the NFL this summer. Reports now are that because he failed a drug test in April, he will not be eligible until at least September.

Now don’t get me wrong, I am not here to preach about the nature of drugs. I am not here to warn children about drugs, to tell the NFL to kick Mr. Williams out for good, or even to ask Ricky where he scores the primo stuff. My protest is simple…what a waste of talent.

Ricky Williams was possibly the greatest college running back I have ever seen. Who knows...maybe he was even the best of all time. Football wasn’t even the only sport Williams excelled in either - he was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies right out of high school and played four years at the Class A level. Football was his best sport though, and while at the University of Texas he proved that.

In college, Williams was a star. Easily the “big man on campus,” he certainly must have been living “the good life.” A four-year starter on a Texas team that was always competitive, Ricky racked up the rushing yards. When he left college for the NFL, Williams was the NCAA’s all time leading rusher with 6,279 yards. In his college career, Williams won two Doak Walker Awards, the Walter Camp Award, the Maxwell Award, and of course...the Heisman Trophy. To this day, Williams still holds at least a share of 20 NCAA records.

In 1999, Williams was drafted #5 overall by the New Orleans Saints. As if the pressure of being such a high draft pick wasn’t enough, the Saints traded all their picks that year plus two more the following year, just to draft Ricky. Now THAT is pressure - he was their entire draft class. Since that draft, Williams has been on a bumpy road.

**(Quick side note to the Eagles fans who booed Donovan McNabb because they wanted Ricky Williams…real smart!!!)**

Williams never really got settled in New Orleans and was traded to Miami in 2002. That season, Ricky rushed for over 1,800 yards and was the NFL’s leading rusher. He also won the Pro Bowl MVP that season. Two years later, Williams tested positive for marijuana. Rather than be fined and face a 4 game suspension, he chose retirement.

Ricky spent his retirement traveling the world, visiting far off places, and smoking pot. It should be noted that Williams has been diagnosed with depression and social anxiety disorder. He was so shy, he would often wear his helmet (which had a visor) during post game interviews to avoid eye contact.

After his suspension, Ricky returned to the Dolphins to avoid repaying the signing bonus he was paid when he signed his contract. His early retirement allowed the Dolphins to regain some money. Then, of course, he tested positive for marijuana again. He was suspended for the entire 2006 season and played in the CFL. Now here we go again…

It's not hyperbole to say that Williams easily could have been one of the top NFL players of our time. When he left college, Ricky was the greatest running back in NCAA history - his records prove that. He was fast, he was big, and he could change games all by himself. If only he had the mental health required to deal with all the media and pressure that come with being a top NFL player. What might have been…

2007 Draft Reviews - AFC & NFC West

AFC West:

1. Oakland Raiders: The top spot in the AFC West goes to those lowly Raiders. Russell was a great pick for them, especially after passing on Matt Leinart and Jay Cutler last year. Quentin Moses, Mario Henderson, and Zach Miller all have the potential to be very good starters in the NFL. The biggest pick of the draft though, has to be Michael Bush in the 4th round. If he can get healthy and play like he did before he was hurt, this could be the best pick of the entire draft.

2. Kansas City Chiefs: Finally, after years of sub par wide receivers, the Chiefs drafted a top player at the position. If it wasn’t for Calvin Johnson, a total freak of nature, Bowe could have gone in the top 5 picks. The Chiefs also attempted to address their weak defensive line, but I think they could have found better value than the DTs they drafted. If it wasn’t for the Bowe pick, the Chiefs would have been 3rd behind…

3. Denver Broncos: Denver didn’t hide what it needed. Everyone knew the Broncos needed pass rushers, and that is exactly what they got. Jarvis Moss has great speed off the edge, but needs to bulk up to be able to stop the run. The pick of Tim Crowder will help them more in the short term, because he has the size to play every down. As much as I like the Crowder pick though, I dislike the Marcus Thomas pick. With all the trouble he has been in, I think to waste a 4th round choice on him was idiotic. If Thomas can somehow clean up his act though, it could be a great pick. This draft is either boom or bust for Denver.

4. San Diego Chargers: With receivers like Jarrett and Smith still available, to reach for Craig Davis was too much. Davis is quick, but was too inconsistent. Jarrett didn’t have the greatest speed, but he is a proven player who should have gone in the 1st round. The Chargers will regret passing him up. They finally got a top safety, but they paid for it. They gave up a lot to get Eric Weddle, and you have to wonder if that will come back to haunt them if Weddle isn’t a top player early in his career. Brandon Siler could be an excellent replacement for the departed Donnie Edwards if he can clean up his character issues.

NFC West:

1. San Francisco 49ers: If all they did in this entire draft was select Patrick Willis at #11, I would have ranked them first in this division. He will be a major force in the NFL before you know it. They were also able to trade back into the 1st round to take tackle Joe Staley. If he is given the time to develop and learn the position, he can be a top left tackle for many years. DE Ray McDonald is a perfect fit for the 3-4 defense coach Nolan like to run. Add to this draft the pick-up of WR Darrell Jackson from division rival Seattle, and this was a heck of a weekend for the 49ers.

2. Arizona Cardinals: While some see the selection of Levi Brown at #5 as a reach, I think it had to be done. They needed a left tackle to develop, and Brown is just the type of lineman those new coaches from Pittsburgh love. To get a talent like Alan Branch in the 2nd round was a great value pick, as he could be a tremendous player if he can dedicate himself to working hard. Buster Davis and Steve Breaston could both pay long term rewards as well. TE Ben Patrick was an excellent selection in the 7th round. If he were drafted in the 3rd round, no one would have thought anything of it.

3. St. Louis Rams: While I love the selection of both Adam Carriker and Brian Leonard, the Rams needed to get significantly better in the secondary. They passed on the top two corners in the draft to take Carriker. If he doesn’t play very well early on and the corners are still getting used and abused, there could be some major grumbling by the fans. Leonard will be a great NFL player and St. Louis is a great fit. Clifton Ryan and Justin Fry, both 5th round choices, have the potential to be good players down the line.

4. Seattle Seahawks: With no first round pick, they actually did a decent job of getting some type of talent. Josh Wilson has the talent to be a top contributor in the secondary right away. The problem is, he may be the only starter (now and later) that Seattle got in this draft. A tight end like Ben Patrick in any round after the 2nd would have been a great choice. The ‘Hawks have a good team, but they could have done a lot more to improve.

Cleaning Up The NFL...

Look out NFL players - here comes Roger Goodell. The NFL’s new commissioner is setting out to clean up a league that has had too many criminals for too long. It has been a long time coming, and this should be just what the doctor ordered. Goodell will be handing out suspensions like Santa’s elves hand out candy canes (if he just moved his office to Cincinnati then he could probably cover half of the league’s problems right there).

It is still unclear how the suspensions will work for minor infractions, or even some of the larger ones (Joey Porter beware). What we do know is that Goodell is very serious about cleaning up the NFL. Between murder trials, shootings outside strip clubs, and drugs, the NFL is widely viewed as a league of criminals. Some would even go so far as to say that because the league makes so much money off of the players, there is a conspiracy to keep them out of prison.

Every NFL offseason, there are stories about NFL players getting into a scuffle, getting caught with drugs, or even worse, getting killed. As a strong starting point to his term as commissioner, Roger Goodell is putting his foot down to say, “No more.” I must say it is refreshing in this day of the almighty dollar to see the league’s highest ranking official stand up for what is right and make football better. Fortunately, the players seem to be all for it too.

Goodell created a player committee to advise him on player related issues. Reportedly, many NFL players had been growing increasingly concerned over the level of misconduct throughout the league. DeAngelo Hall of the Atlanta Falcons, one of the concerned players, recently referred to Goodell as the “new sheriff in town.” The term couldn’t fit better.

A sheriff’s job is to keep the town safe and police those in it. Goodell has taken it upon himself to clean up the NFL and make it respectable again. Like any other good sheriff though, the first thing he has to do is get the bad seeds out. Unfortunately for them, two of those seeds recently found out just how serious Goodell is. Former West Virginia players Adam “Pacman” Jones (of the Titans) and Chris Henry (a Bengal) were suspended for significant time. Jones received a full year suspension, while Henry will be out for the first eight weeks.

As two of the league’s most notorious miscreants, Goodell apparently has decided to use Jones and Henry as poster boys for his brand of justice. Goodell has put bite into the league’s personal conduct policy and now there is no question that players who cannot abide by the law will be suspended. Goodell said it best himself by saying, “We must protect the integrity of the NFL.”

Quite simply...the sheriff is doing his job. Look out NFL - this guy means business.

2007 NFL Draft - 5 Things I Know

I have almost finished my last mock draft of the year. I felt that my first one was pretty solid, but trades and signings since then have forced me to make a few minor changes. Unfortunately, things never seem to go as planned in the draft. Teams at the top of the draft are either looking to move down (which they will never fully advertise) or bringing in top choices for workouts and interviews (even though they only have interest in about half of the people they bring in). Teams at the bottom of the draft are either looking to trade up (which they can mention, but without saying how high they want to move) or trying to calculate who will be available when they pick (which I don’t know how you do when you have no idea who anyone else is going to pick thanks to all the smoke screens).

Did you follow all that? If you did, can you explain it to me? The bottom line is that teams rarely do what is expected of them beyond the first 3-6 picks. After that, we always see “reaches” and trades.

That is how it always happens. A team picking 7th might realize, based on the players picked 1-6, that the player they really want will still be available at the 10 spot. They will then trade down three spots and still take the guy all those “experts” were saying would be drafted 7th. Of course, then those same experts will tell you they had it right because they got the player and team matched, just at the wrong number. What they won't tell you is that most of the time they are just guessing in the dark.

There are few sure things when it comes to the NFL draft. The easiest pick in every mock draft last year was Reggie Bush first to the Texans, right? We all know how that turned out. You can always bet that Al Davis has no idea what he is doing. You can also bet that, somehow or someway, Andy Reid will find a way to draft a few more fat linemen (that was for you, Jason). Beyond these sure things, it’s usually a wash.

That said, I’m going to take a shot at it anyhow. I’m a brave soul and I believe there are a few things I “know” about this year’s draft...

1. "Consensus" picks rarely pan out: The two seemingly consensus picks in this year’s draft are Greg Olsen to Carolina and Marshawn Lynch to Green Bay. At least one (and probably both) of these picks will not happen. Keep in mind that as I say this, I have both of these players going to these respective teams in my mock draft. Lynch could very easily go 12th to Buffalo, since they traded away McGahee. Then the Panthers would be able to take Patrick Willis (whom I have going to the Bills) from Ole Miss. This would then be an easy pick for the Panthers because they lost Chris Draft in free agency and Dan Morgan can't stay on the field. Picks outside the top 1-3 choices that everyone agrees on usually just don’t happen. If you don’t believe me, go check how many people had the Bills taking a DT with the 8th pick last year and how many had Buffalo taking a safety.

2. Sometimes "reach" picks aren't that much of a reach: Speaking of the Bills safety, Donte Whitner was a supposed “bust” last year after being taking with that 8th overall pick. Now, no one is saying a word after he had one heck of a rookie year (105 tackles). Every year there is one top 10 pick that makes the experts sound like Scooby Doo. They scratch their heads, call the pick a reach, and then you never hear them talk about it again because they are usually wrong. Fact is that if these experts really knew this much about the NFL draft, they would be employed by an NFL team!

3. Joe Staley's stock will continue to rise: Joe Staley, a tackle from Central Michigan, will be taken much higher in the draft than anyone thinks. Staley has steadily risen up many draft boards, and for good reason. Still, most have him at the end of the first round. As fellow TalkingHead Pischl states in his mock draft, Staley certainly is becoming a “chic selection” - there are several teams early on in the draft that could easily take him. Don’t be surprised (assuming Levi Brown is off the board to Miami at #9) if teams like the Texans (10th), Panthers (14th), Packers (16th), Titans (19th), and Giants (20th) all give Staley a long, hard look.

4. Daniel Snyder will make a move: The Redskins will trade away more draft picks. I know, this will be tough considering they only have one pick in the first four rounds, but I have faith that Daniel Snyder will find a way. I don’t know how he does it; I guess he is just that good. With their one pick though, I fully expect them to look for some kind of pass rush from the defensive line. Whether that is a top DE (Adams or Anderson) to provide speed off the edge or a massive DT (Branch or Okoye) to demand double teams, the Redskins have to improve that d-line.

5. The Eagles will draft for the secondary: There is nothing wrong with the Eagles offense - the issues for the Birds are on the defensive side of the ball. They have problems along the d-line. There are questions about the linebackers. The secondary though, is certainly a position of great strength. That said, the Eagles will draft a player for the secondary in the first round. Don’t ask me why, your guess is as good as mine. But Andy Reid always drafts for two years down the road, and perhaps this is the year they find Brian Dawkins eventual replacement (Griffin?). Of course, this is all assuming some fat lineman doesn’t fall into his lap.

So there you have it. These five things will surely happen during this year’s NFL draft. Mark them down, circle them in red, and then e-mail me in a month when none of them actually happen.

Opening Day is Upon Us

Can you smell that? The beer, the peanuts…the pine tar? That’s right, it’s time for baseball season. Opening day for most teams is Monday, but the first game in the league is tomorrow night with the Cards taking on the Mets. I guess the real question though is...did you even know?

With the Madness still in full swing and the NBA playoffs right around the corner, baseball seems to take a back seat in the early months. Baseball season for most people these days starts in June or July. These people, who say they are “fans,” miss the first 2-3 months of the season (well not miss, they still have their fantasy teams I’m sure) and then follow the second half. By the time they start watching, teams have already fallen out of the playoff race. How can your season start with teams already eliminated?

The real baseball fan knows that spring training started a month ago. Pitchers and catchers reporting is a great day. It is a great day because soon to follow is the day when the rest of the players report to camp. Do you know why that day is a great day? It’s because not too long after that, the preseason games begin. I know some people frown on preseason baseball because it doesn’t matter who wins, but it’s not about that.

Both the Cactus and Grapefruit Leagues are about finding the starting rotation, figuring out whom that platoon at third base is going to be, and deciding if trading that future star is really worth it for an aging veteran who just might put you over the top this year. That is why real baseball people care about preseason baseball - it sets the stage for the season and gives those psuedo-fans the time to realize the season is about to begin.

Opening Day is upon us and I for one couldn’t be happier. What other event finds more people taking off work or cutting out early than opening day in baseball? Some will tell you that’s only because they want to miss work. Maybe that’s true, but I choose to believe that at least some of those souls just really couldn’t wait for the season. They have waited since October for this and now they just can’t wait any longer. They need that first homerun, that first spectacular double play, that first save for the home team. They need the beer, the peanuts, and the pine tar. They need it all.

Opening Day is just around the weekend. Monday afternoon I will be missing work to show my support for the home team. I will be missing work to get my yearly fix of that first trip to the ballpark. And I will be missing work for the beer, the peanuts, and yes, even the pine tar. So come on, who’s with me?

Matt Schaub Trade Analysis

The Atlanta Falcons this past week traded away Matt Schaub (their back-up QB) and their 1st round pick (10th overall) in this year’s NFL draft. Those two pieces were sent to the Texans for Houston’s first (8th overall) and second round picks this year, as well as their second round pick in next year’s draft. Also this week, Schaub signed a 6-year contract worth $48 million. Not bad for a back-up quarterback who has never won a start in the NFL. So what were these teams thinking?

Atlanta’s Perspective:

This trade was a slam dunk for the Falcons. With Michael Vick still wowing fans with his speed and agility (although not that much winning), Schaub was never going to be a starter for this team. Although he has filled in nicely when Vick has been hurt, he still has yet to win a game as a starting QB. That said, most teams around the NFL feel Schaub has the potential to be a top quarterback in the league. Every off-season, teams have been trying to trade for him (see Minnesota last year). The Texan’s were the team to finally get it done.

To obtain two second round picks in addition to moving up two spots in the first round for your back-up quarterback was simply masterful. Moving from the 10th spot to the 8th spot won’t change their pick, but it should assure them of landing their man - Laron Landry from LSU (to check out who everyone else will be taking in the first round, read my latest mock draft here). It is the two second round picks though, that I see as being the biggest key to this deal.

The Texans aren’t exactly a model franchise in the NFL. They have not been a good football team and there is no reason to think that Schaub and the rest of this year’s group will do much to change that. This means that the second round pick for next season could be even better than the one in this year’s draft (and this year’s is in top 10 of the second round). This is clearly a top-notch trade for the Falcons. Bobby Petrino will certainly be given some quality players with which he can build his team.

Houston’s Perspective:

The Texan’s side of this trade is not as immediately clear. While the Falcons got draft picks, which have a clear and calculable value, Houston got Matt Schaub and the aforementioned 10th pick overall. Moving down to #10 shouldn’t change the Texans pick. I had them pegged for Levi Brown from PSU at #8 and if he gets by the Dolphins at #9, the Texans will have traded down two spots and still gotten the man they want and need. So while I’m sure the swapping of first round picks this year was key in getting the deal done, I don’t see it playing out as a major impact in the trade.

Matt Schaub is the key to this deal. The problem with this trade is that, from the Texan’s side, it is all based on potential. If Matt Schaub becomes a top quarterback who leads the Texan’s for the next 10 years and makes them a competitive franchise, then this was obviously a great trade for Houston. On the other hand, if he is completely inept and turns out to be another bust, then the Texan’s will have to rebuild yet again. Houston could become the first team in NFL history to rebuild 3 different times before ever becoming competitive.

That is why this trade is so important for the Texans. Matt Schaub certainly has the talent to be a good, possibly great, player. He has to step up and be the man for a franchise who passed on Reggie Bush. Think about that. Not only does Schaub have the pressure of a $48 million contract, but also of being the guy who the organization is counting on to make the fans forget about passing on Bush. Either one of those on its own is enough to make a talented player fail worse than Ryan Leaf, but combined, it is enough to drain Superman of his powers faster than Kryptonite.

Final Thoughts:

Right now, this is clearly a win for the Falcons. The 8th overall pick and two second round picks for a back-up QB and the 10th overall pick is huge for a franchise with a new direction like Atlanta. Best case scenario for the Texans is that Schaub becomes a star, wins Super Bowls, and turns Houston into a dynasty. If that were to happen, it would obviously be a win for the Texans, but Schaub can just make the Falcons competitive, the trade might be even. For right now though it’s advantage Falcons…Superman better get to work.

Mock NFL Draft - 3/17/07

As the NFL Draft approaches, things change very quickly. When Kevin Curtis signed a deal with the Eagles, it probably took the Eagles out of the running for a WR in this year’s draft. The same thing probably can be said about a WR for the Patriots with their signing of Donte Stallworth. With that in mind, here is how this April’s draft would play out…if it happened today, of course.

#1. Oakland: JaMarcus Russell (QB, LSU) – Some fools (ahem, Pischl) think that just because Calvin Johnson is the best player in the year’s draft, that means GMs and owners won’t pass on his talent. These fools give GMs and owners too much credit! Al Davis is too set in his ways to realize how great Calvin Johnson will be. Russell can throw the deep ball very well (a Davis must) and that will be enough. Besides, you can't hardly blame them for taking a potential franchise QB with the top spot.

#2. Detroit: Brady Quinn (QB, Notre Dame) – Many people have been talking about Joe Thomas in this spot, but with Jeff Backus already entrenched as the LT, and another potential franchise QB sitting here, even Matt Millen can't make this mistake. Brady Quinn could be the face of a franchise that hasn’t had a player with his marketing appeal since Barry Sanders retired. This draft pick would cure all those problems, and maybe even help people forget about all the WRs Millen drafted.

#3. Cleveland: Adrian Peterson (RB, Oklahoma) – Sure, they just signed Jamal Lewis. But did you notice that it was a one year deal? Teams don’t sign guys they have in their long-term plans for only one year. That contract screams to me that Lewis wanted a short deal to prove he can stay healthy and that he can carry a crappy team, then he is gone. That said, the Browns (assuming both QBs are gone, because either would be the pick here if they fell) should take Peterson here and let him run behind that offensive line they have spent so much money on recently.

#4. Tampa Bay: Calvin Johnson (WR, Georgia Tech) – The needs (and terrible previous drafts) of other teams allow the Bucs to get the best player in the 4th position. This pick alone should give the Bucs an A for their draft grade. Johnson has all the skills of the top WRs in the NFL, without a lot of the character problems that seem to plague most at the position. Both Jeff Garcia and Chris Simms will be thinking potential Pro Bowl after this pick is made.

#5. Arizona: Joe Thomas (OT, Wisconsin) – Just like Tampa, the Cards will be in heaven if a player of this caliber (who also happens to fill the team’s biggest need) falls to them at #5. Thomas will protect Leinart for the next 10 years and Matt will be very grateful for his presence.

#6. Washington: Gaines Adams (DE, Clemson) – With their inability to pressure the QB last season, the Skins have to be looking d-line in round one. Add in the fact that they don’t pick again until round five and this selection needs to be a homerun. Adams doesn’t play as tough against the run as Joe Gibbs would like, but he is hands down the best pure pass rusher in the draft. He’ll go to Washington here and the Skins will be very happy with the choice.

#7. Minnesota: Jamaal Anderson (DE, Arkansas) – While WR is easily the team’s biggest need, Brad Childress reportedly doesn’t believe in taking WRs in round one (although if Calvin Johnson were available, I’m sure he would see things differently). This makes sense if you remember that Childress worked with Andy Reid in Philly for many years (everyone knows Andy’s feelings on WRs). It wouldn’t be surprising if the Vikes traded up to get either Johnson or one of the top QBs, but if not they need to go after an upgrade to Udeze (who didn’t get a single sack last season in 15 starts).

#8. Houston: Levi Brown (OT, Penn State) – There is no question that the Texans' biggest problem over the years has been their o-line. David Carr has been sacked more times during his time in the league than he cares to remember…or can remember for that matter. Brown is the second best lineman in the draft and has the potential to be a top LT down the road. Houston finally has the chance to grab their franchise tackle and they do so here.

#9. Miami: Adam Carriker (DE, Nebraska) – At 6-6 and nearly 300 pounds, Carriker has ideal size for a d-lineman. Even better, his speed will allow him to play end in a 3-4 or tackle in a 4-3. With Miami’s hiring of Dom Capers (lover of the 3-4), players with Carriker’s versatility are always needed. Reports are that the team loves Carriker’s potential.

#10. Atlanta: Laron Landry (S, LSU) – It is very clear to most people around the NFL that the Falcons biggest need is at safety (Crocker is average at best and Milloy isn’t getting any younger). The team cannot pass on the opportunity to bring in a playmaker of Landry’s quality. He is equally talented against both the run and the pass, so logic says this is the pick here.

#11. San Francisco: Alan Branch (DT, Michigan) – The 49ers offense seemed to click last year behind Frank Gore and Alex Smith, but if the team can’t play better defense, it won’t matter. Branch has the ability to be a massive force on the interior of the d-line and will command double teams on every play. There is no way the 49ers can pass up a player of his size and skill. If they do though, look for them to be keying on Patrick Willis from Ole Miss.

#12. Buffalo: Patrick Willis (ILB, Ole Miss) – The loss of Nate Clements looms large in the secondary, but the loss of London Fletcher-Baker could hurt even more. Willis has both the smarts and stats to back up this draft position. He also has the work ethic and leadership capabilities Dick Jauron will be looking for to revamp his defense. This pick is great for both talent and need.

#13. St. Louis: Amobi Okoye (DT, Lousiville) – The Rams defense against the run last year was terrible. The team needs to bring in a top talent along the d-line - with this pick, they can do just that. Okoye is a great talent and the kid is still only 19! He started college at 16 as a true freshman and his upside is limitless. The Rams take a chance here and will someday win big on the gamble.

#14. Carolina: Greg Olsen (TE, Miami) – The top TE in the draft, Olsen is the easy pick here. He has the skills to make defenders respect the TE and open things up for Steve Smith on the outside. He also has the speed to stretch the field and clear out the short routes for both WRs and RBs.

#15. Pittsburgh: Leon Hall (CB, Michigan) – Everyone has their mind set that the Steelers are going d-line or linebacker with their first pick because of the new coach’s style of play. The problem is that no matter who is playing in the front seven, you can’t run the Cover 2 defense without top talent at corner. That being said, Hall is the top corner available and he should be the pick here.

#16. Green Bay: Marshawn Lynch (RB, Cal) – Lynch has great size, great hands, and big play speed. Basically, he does everything Ahman Green used to do. He would be the perfect fit for this offense now and going forward. Look for this to be the quickest pick made if Lynch is still available when the Packers go on the clock.

#17. Jacksonville: Reggie Nelson (S, Florida) – The loss of Deon Grant to Seattle has left a major hole in the secondary for the Jags. A true ballhawk, Nelson made so many plays last year that his highlight reel would be longer than some feature films (and probably better). He can team with Donovan Darius to be one of the top safety tandems in the league.

#18. Cincinnati: Jon Beason (OLB, Miami) – While he may not be the type of guy the Bengals have been picking the last few years (he has no arrests that I know of), the loss of Thurman, Pollack, and Simmons makes LB a top need. The offense scores points - Beason could help the defense pull its weight. Another easy pick for a team with a very clear need.

#19. Tennessee: Dwayne Jarrett (WR, USC) – While some like Dwayne Bowe from LSU better here, Jarrett’s USC ties to Norm Chow will win out because he can help the Titans and QB Vince Young with his size and scoring ability. Chow proved at USC he that can use WRs like Jarrett to put up points - with this pick he can try to do the same in the NFL.

#20. NYG: Ted Ginn (WR, Ohio State) – While WR may not be the team's biggest need, one with speed couldn’t hurt. Ginn's value as a return man shouldn’t be under-looked either, as team are starting to see what a great return man can do for your team (see Devin Hester). This pick may surprise some people, but it is the smart way to go.

#21. Denver: Jarvis Moss (DE, Florida) – The Broncos want someone to rush the passer and that is what Moss does best. He could bulk up a little to be better against the run, but if Denver wants someone to sack the QB, they could do a lot worse than Moss.

#22. Dallas: Chris Houston (CB, Arkansas) – With Anthony Henry moving to FS to fill the team’s biggest need, a hole is left at corner. Houston is a little short, but his outstanding man-to-man cover skills easily compensate for his lack of height. With the kind of talent he has playing man on the outside, Dallas could have a greatly improved defense and allow Roy Williams to play closer to the line.

#23. Kansas City: Dwayne Bowe (WR, LSU) – Finally the Chiefs will get the top WR they have been missing for all these years. Bowe has the size and speed of a great NFL wideout and this would seem to be an easy pick for the Chiefs. The only other possible option would be a pick at tackle to sure up the o-line.

#24. New England: Paul Posluszny (OLB, Penn State) – Pischl would love to see him fall to the Eagles, but the Patriots cannot pass on Posluszny at 24. He is exactly the type of player the Patriots love to pick and he will be very productive in their system for years and years to come.

#25. NYJ: Darrelle Revis (CB, Pitt) – The Jets offense seemed to run fine last season (although an improvement at running back would do the team well). The defense played well too, but the talent at corner could use an upgrade. Revis is just the kind of physical athlete this team needs in the secondary.

#26. Philadelphia: Michael Griffin (S, Texas) – A surprise pick here for some, but a great one. With WR no longer being a top need and both Patrick Willis and Paul Posluszny gone, Michael Lewis’ replacement is the next biggest problem. Griffin hits like a hammer, yet also runs like a corner (Lewis’ biggest problem while with the Eagles). The selection of Griffin will have the Eagles fans in shock, until he suits up - then he will have them screaming for more every week.

#27. New Orleans: Aaron Ross (CB, Texas) – The Saints had a storybook season last year, but they weren't exactly carried by their corners. The Saints current DBs aren’t the worst corners in the league, but they could certainly stand to improve a bit. Ross brings in the type of top young talent this defense needs to maintain the momentum from a solid 2006 season.

#28. New England: Brian Leonard (FB, Rutgers) – Most people probably think there is no way a fullback will be taken in the first round, but Leonard isn’t really a fullback. He is superman. He can play running back, fullback, or even h-back. The Pats love these type of “utility” guys, so it would not be a stretch at all to see him taken by the Patriots here.

#29. Baltimore: Joe Staley (OT, Central Michgan) – Bottom line? The Ravens need to upgrade their o-line and Staley is a top talent at the position. With Ogden getting older and thinking of retirement, it is never too soon to start thinking about his future replacement. Some of you may not have heard of Staley, but I promise you will soon enough.

#30. San Diego: Robert Meachem (WR, Tennessee) – The WRs for the Chargers have just not lived up to expectations in recent years. The team keeps waiting for Vincent Jackson to emerge, but he just keeps disappointing them. It is time for a change and Meachem has the speed and size to make people believe right away. The Chargers finally take a WR who can help them now.

#31. Chicago: Tony Ugoh (OT, Arkansas) – A true road grader, Ugoh opened holes last year for one of the top rushing attacks in the nation. A team like Chicago who loves to run the ball would jump at the chance to add a talent like Ugoh to the mix. I’m sure Rex would love to see him keep some of those pass rushers off his back as well. Ugoh is the pick here.

#32. Indianapolis: Lawrence Timmons (OLB, Florida State) – The loss of Cato June will be tough to replace on this defense. He was a great playmaker in the passing game and his speed was very important to this team. Timmons is still raw, but Tony dungy has the ability to teach this kid how to play the game right. If he does, Timmons could be even better than June.

Oh The Madness!

March is great. The weather starts getting warmer. Spring is just around the corner and leaves return to the trees, making the world looks a little less barren than it did before. Mostly though...March is about the madness.

As an avid sports fan, I follow all four major sports religiously (although the NHL is quickly losing points in my mind, but that’s a story for another time). I also follow the two big college sports with great interest. March is a great month for pro sports. NFL free agency is in full swing, the NBA is nearing the playoffs as each team makes that final push for a spot in the postseason, and baseball players are in either Florida or Arizona tuning up for the season opener.

For a few weeks at the end of the month though (and for the first weekend in April), none of the pro sports matter. They are all put on the back burner as the world turns its attention to the college hard court. For many, it’s almost as if all other sports cease to exist until that special team of the year is cutting down the nets. That, my friends, is why it is called “The Madness.”

Soon, people will be taking off work a couple Thursdays and Fridays to watch games with their friends. Saturdays and Sundays will be spent in front of the television instead of out on the town. Just think, this Thursday we will have sixteen games to watch. As if that isn’t enough (it never is), there are sixteen more the very next day! Then, over the weekend, there are eight games on Saturday and eight more on Sunday. For those of you keeping track, that makes forty-eight games in four days - and that’s just the first two rounds! We have only just begun!

As if watching the games and cheering for your team weren’t enough, the Tournament brings with it the ever popular Pick ‘em Pools. You have heard of these, yes? The idea is that you pick the winners of each game of the tournament by filling out a bracket you either cut out of the newspaper or printed off your computer; then you get points for each game picked correctly, usually with more points given for a game picked in a later round. The winner of the usually takes home a nice prize, sometimes of significant monetary value.

Later today when the tournament field is revealed, we'll all be scrambling to fill out our brackets. More gambling takes place during the NCAA Tournament than any other sporting event in the world - perhaps a reason for its popularity. The bottom line here is that it’s tournament time. The Madness is upon us! I know I couldn’t be happier.

Potential can be a Scary Thing

Does anyone else think the NFL Combine is a gigantic waste of time? In what other sport does the league put its potential new players through such a rigorous, meaningless workout? Does the NBA rank the entrant's speed on how well they run timed suicides? No, they just watch the guys play. Does the NHL pull out a radar gun to see how hard every slap shot is? No, they just watch the guys play. Certainly potential MLB power hitters are asked to bench 225lbs. as many times as they can so the GMs can gauge their homerun potential, right? No, they simply…watch…them…play!

Anyone else sensing a theme here?

In every other league, the top picks are very easily determined. No one can tell me that if Lebron James ran a slow suicide that he still wouldn’t have been the top pick. The same goes in baseball and hockey. The top picks are the top picks because of how they perform on the field, ice, or court. Their draft status doesn’t have anything to do with a weight room, a stop watch, or radar gun. In the NFL, it’s all about potential. *(Quick side note. Does anyone else think it’s curious that the only league that puts so much stock in weights and timed sprints is the league that has more “draft busts” than any other? Think about it.)*

People are always talking about a player’s “draft stock” and how it keeps rising and falling due to private workouts, the combine, and that “test” players have to take. Obviously the Wonderlic test means nothing. Some of the greatest players in NFL history didn’t score well on that test (Dan Marino to name but one). So the test is just a waste of time. I don't think Dan's career was defined by the test. Players don’t need to know algebra to play sports. They might need to know it to help their kids with their homework someday, but that doesn’t affect a player’s draft status, does it?

Maybe if they had watched more game film and less combine work, teams in the NFL would not have passed on so many top players for those “potentials” or those “workout warriors.” Can you imagine if Jerry Rice was just coming into the NFL today? It is reported that he ran in the 4.6-4.7 range at the combine. Just think of how many teams would have passed on him for someone who could run a 4.3 in the 40.

Every single year, NFL teams pass on the top players in college football to draft the guys with potential. That’s the key right there, potential. For most people, it’s just a word. For the NFL, it’s the scariest word there is. To think, GMs in the NFL actually ask themselves questions like, “Do we draft Peyton Manning because he has the skills and has proven them over his life, or do we draft Ryan Leaf because of all the potential he has shown?”

More Pippen? Let's Hope Not...

Scottie Pippen, one of the most overrated players ever to grace the NBA hardwood, has announced he wants to play this season for a contender. At the age of 41, Pippen feels he is very well rested and in great shape. Hmm, could that be because he hasn’t played in the league for 3 seasons? Of course he is well rested…he hasn’t done anything in years!

When he was in the league, Pippen did some things very well. There is no doubting that he played great defense. With his long arms and quick feet, he guarded everyone from point guards to power forwards. He was tenacious on the defensive end, leading to easy buckets on the other end. His offensive game though, left much to be desired.

It's not that his offensive game was terrible, he just couldn’t do anything for himself. He was the original embodiment of a point forward. He could bring the ball up, pass fairly well, and make a set jumper. Though he possessed all of those skills, it was rare to see Pippen create shots for himself. You never saw Scottie take someone off the dribble, unless there was an obvious mismatch. The only lay-ups and dunks he ever scored were either on the fast break (where no one was between him and the hoop), or on perfect feeds from Jordan.

That right there is the key…Michael Jordan. Scottie Pippen would have been something along the lines of a Bruce Bowen if it wasn’t for Michael. He is the Deion Branch of the NBA. Branch wasn’t worth much, but once he caught 11 passes in the Super Bowl from Tom Brady, he suddenly was worth a first round pick. Pippen was just an average NBA player, but because he was arguably the second best player on a team with MJ, he is suddenly thought of as a top talent.

Think of all the accolades bestowed upon Pippen just because he was on the Bulls while Jordan was there. The All-Defensive teams he made were totally legit, but the All-Star games and certainly the NBA’s Top 50 were ridiculous. Think about that, he was named one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history. He never did anything great his whole career! His entire career was defined by Michael Jordan. How can someone be a great player if their whole playing career was reliant upon another player being present as well?

Do you remember how bad he was when Jordan retired? He was a terrible player those seasons because he didn’t have anyone to create for him. The only decent seasons he had after MJ left the game were in Portland, where other players were there to create for him. All he had to do was bring the ball up the floor, play some defense, and knock down a few open jumpers. Tell me, what about that makes a player great? Exactly…nothing!

We must give Pippen credit for his perfect choice of timing. He announced his plans to return to the NBA just a short while before the trade deadline. Oh, and it also happened to be on the eve of the All-Star break, when teams have a few days to go over their roster, figure out what they need for a playoff push, and then make a move. Brilliant! Other than attaching his career to MJ’s (nice work advisors), this is the best move of his career. Maybe that’s because he never had any of his own.

NBA Picks, Feb. 14th

I know it has been a while since I have posted NBA picks, but I have been on a sort of hiatus from basketball. I tried to follow it during the football season, but I just couldn’t. Football is simply too important to my bank account. That said, my record speaks for itself - no introductions are needed here. I have the winners and you want the winners. So let’s get right to it, shall we?

Game One: Chicago Bulls (29-24) at Charlotte Bobcats (18-33)

Not too much to say about this game. The Bobcats are a terrible team and should be 5-10 point underdogs in every game they play. The only time they aren’t, they win…or at least cover. I’m taking the Bobcats (+2) tonight as they look to put a hurtin’ on the Bulls.

Game Two: Washington Wizards (28-21) at Philadelphia 76ers (17-35)

Another easy game for the picking. The Wizards are a top team in the Eastern Conference, and should do very well in the playoffs if they can keep Agent Zero under control. The 76ers on the other hand, are one of the worst teams in basketball. That’s why this is such an easy game to pick! You have to take the 76ers (+1). Something is fishy here...and I’m going to catch the big one!

Game Three: Milwaukee Bucks (19-33) at Boston Celtics (12-38)

The only reason I called the 76ers one of the worst teams in basketball, is because of the Boston Celtics. They are the worst team in basketball. They have lost 18 straight games! You would think a team of NBA players could fall into a win over that stretch, not this team though. That is why, after seeing them FAVORED by over 5 points, I’m betting the Celtics break that streak tonight. My money is on Boston (-5.5) tonight.

Game Four: Sacramento Kings (22-28) at New Orleans Hornets (24-28)

These two teams have almost identical records. Considering their near mirror wins/loss status, the line for this game should not be as high as it is. Bottom line, I think the folks in Vegas are trying to lure you in. The Kings lost last night in overtime, and I’m thinking they are just too tired to play another tough game on the road. The smart money tonight is on the Hornets (-6).

The Greatest Rivalry in Sports

Ladies and...well...you guys, I am here today to set the record straight. I know, some will fight me to the death on this, but I would just like to point out that it would be a losing fight for my opposition. The greatest rivalry in sports is not the Yankees/Red Sox. If you were to say that it’s OSU/Michigan football, you would be wrong again. The greatest rivalry in sports is now, and will always be, UNC/Duke on the hardwood.First things first. To have a true rivalry, there must be two teams that play each other at least once every season, that go after the same recruits/free agents every year, and, most importantly,absolutely HATE each other (the hatred has to be between the players too, not just the fans). Any fan can hate another fan, but hatred between players: that makes a rivalry.

Now, let's start with the schedule makers, the easiest ingredient in a rivalry. Any two teams in the same division in the pros and in the same conference in college (for the most part) will play each other at least once a year. The people in charge of making money should see to that. For instance, every year in Big Ten football, each team does not play every other team in the conference. Don’t ask me why, that’s an issue for another time and place. But could you ever see the television people or the conference not scheduling an OSU/UM game during the season? They don’t care if Penn State is going to play Indiana or Northwestern any given season, but every year you will see the Nittany Lions playing the Spartans of Michigan State for the Land Grant Trophy. *(quick side note, if you have a trophy that is won every game in your rivalry, it isn’t a true rivalry. The teams are playing for the trophy, not just to beat the other team.)*

Moving on to the players themselves, I think all pro sports get crossed off the application for rivalry based on the players. As a free agent in any pro sport, players will go for either the money or the chance to win a title. A former Steeler would play for the Browns or Ravens if the price was right or if one of those other teams had a better chance of contending for a Super Bowl. That doesn’t happen in college. I seriously doubt I will ever in my life see a player decide he doesn’t like the University of Texas anymore, and then transfer to Oklahoma or A&M. Pro athletes will change teams like they change their clothes, but in college, that is not how things work.

In baseball, Roger Clemens and Johnny Damon both played for the Red Sox and then moved on to the Yankees. Damon was the only one who went straight from Boston to New York though, which makes his defection even more wrong…if it was a true rivalry anyhow. Rivalries in the pros are about the fans. Red Sox fans hate Yankee fans, but the Red Sox players don’t always hate the Yankee players.

That brings me right back to the most important aspect of a rivalry, hatred. For a true rivalry to exist there must be true hatred. The fans hate the fans, the players hate the players, the parents hate the parents…alright, you get the idea. This is why, along with the factors discussed above, Duke/UNC is the best rivalry in sports. Everyone hates everyone, from the fans to the players to the people working the concession stand. Every single basket creates a rush of emotion in both fan and player. Every single loose ball could mean the difference between a win and a loss, and that shows on the faces of the coaches, players, and fans alike.

Take Wednesday night’s game for instance. When two players were on the ground wrestling for a jump ball (and I mean wrestling, not pulling at the ball), even after the ref blew the whistle to stop play, neither would let go. Why would they do that? It’s because they want that ball. They don’t want the other team to have that ball. It’s their ball, the other team had it, and now they are going to take it back! It wouldn’t surprise me to one day see UNC getting beat by 20 on its home floor and one UNC player pick up the ball and say, “I’m taking my ball and I’m going home,” just so the Blue Devils couldn’t score any more points with it.

These kids sleep outside the stadium at Duke to make sure they get the best seats; and not just overnight, some of these kids will sleep outside for weeks (during the semester). They even named the group of tents “Krzyzewskiville.” I think Will Blythe said it best in his book entitled To Hate Like This is to be Happy Forever. Blythe, a 3rd generation Tar Heel stated, “I am a sick, sick man. Not only am I consumed by hatred, I am delighted by it…”

Duke and UNC are only 8 miles apart. Imagine...the group of people you hate most as players and fans live 10 minutes down the road. They could be outside your house right now painting your door that horrible “Carolina Blue” color!

Now THAT is a rivalry.

NFL Picks, Super Bowl

Well, that was an interesting weekend, wasn’t it? No football at all for the first time in months. I don’t like it one bit. I guess I better get used to it though, considering the last big game is played tomorrow.

I hate this time of year. Football is ending, baseball isn’t quite here yet and we still have to wait another month for the Madness that is March. The only thing I know of that can get me through this horrible month of February is...money.

Money can be a cure when no one else can think of anything. Most of you readers were probably a little down after I dropped that 0-4 bomb during the divisional round of the playoffs. Fortunately, if you stayed true to the picks, then during the conference title games you cleaned house because I swept them (2-0).

Everyone has bad weeks, but I had a great season overall. Hopefully, you all made some money this NFL season by listening to me. I know I did. Anyhow, for the last pick of the season, the winner is…

Super Bowl: Indianapolis Colts (12-4) vs. Chicago Bears (13-3)

I know I wrote that the NFC title game between the Bears and the Saints was the ultimate meeting of offense versus defense. That was before the cold weather, hostile crowd, and the Saints blunders turned the game into a false prediction. The weather in Miami will not be cold. The crowd in Miami should be about 50-50 (give or take a few thousand) and Peyton Manning has shown that he is very capable of getting over this “hump” people keep talking about. This game will certainly be about "offense versus defense", even more so than the NFC title game. Sure, in some ways it will be the Colts offense versus the Bears defense, but mostly it will be about the Colts defense versus the Bears offense.

The Colts are going to score some points on the Bears. The Bears are going to stop the Colts some too. Peyton will throw at least one interception, but also at least one touchdown pass. This is not the key match-up. The key will be whether or not the Colts can stop the run. The key will be whether or not Rex Grossman plays like a donkey. These are the keys to the Super Bowl.

In the end, I am torn between who I want to win and who I think will win. I would like to see Peyton will the big game so that people will shut the hell up about how he can’t win it. There is nothing I hate more in sports than a story that gets too much coverage. I just can’t shake this feeling though, that the Bears WIN (yeah, you heard right) this game. Now, I’m not telling you to take the money line on this game. I keep hearing people say things like, “The Colts should be favored by 14 points - they are gonna kill ‘em!” I guess I just don’t see it.

The people that make the lines make a very good living off of it. They know what they are doing, more than anyone possibly could. Honestly, I don’t know how they can do it. I just accept that they know more than me, and try to read what they are doing as best I can. With that in mind, the bet this weekend is the Chicago Bears (+7).

This is my last NFL post for the season (gambling post anyhow), but don’t worry too much because I also write picks for the NBA. Remember to check back here every day starting on Monday for potential daily picks. For one last time this football season: happy gambling to you all!

NFL Picks: Divisional Round

The first playoff weekend started off wonderfully…and ended not so well. After going 2-0 on the Saturday games, Sunday turned out to be just the opposite. This weekend I strive for perfection, but then again...I always do. So what makes this weekend different?

This weekend’s games are the division winners. Every single Wild Card team lost last weekend, meaning the only teams left were good enough to win their respective divisions. Personally, I think that is the way it should be from the start, but we’ll get into that another time. Anyhow...on to this weekend’s games.

Game One: Indianapolis Colts (12-4) at Baltimore Ravens (13-3)

What a great game this appears to be on paper. Peyton Manning and his prolific offense facing Ray-Ray and his dominant defense. I love these games. What I love even more is making money on these games. Peyton will really miss having Edge in the backfield today, because of his blitz pick-up abilities. Look for the Ravens to constantly send the linebackers today because their corners have the talent to stay with Marvin and Reggie. I’m taking the Ravens (-4).

Game Two: Philadelphia Eagles (10-6) at New Orleans Saints (10-6)

In the first meeting between the teams this year, the Saints were able to run out the clock and kick a field goal as time expired to take the win. Did I mention that they ran off about half of the 4th quarter on that same game winning drive? Both teams are quite different than they were in that game though. The Saints have continued their winning ways, but have looked beatable at times. The Eagles, meanwhile, have won 6 straight games and are looking very solid. Add the fact that I’m an Eagles fan, and I think we both know who I’m taking…THE SAINTS! Take the Saints (-5).

Game Three: Seattle Seahawks (9-7) at Chicago Bears (13-3)

The name in this game, as I’m sure everyone knows, is Rex Grossman. Basically, when betting this game one needs to decide which Rex will show up. Is it the Rex who hits his WRs on long passes for easy scores or the Rex who hits defenders on short passes…also for easy scores? I’m betting on the decent Rex. I think the Bears will run the ball, play tough defense, and win this game pretty easily. Even if Rex doesn’t have a super game, his defense can score enough points to get the win. Plus, the Bears have a return man who could outscore the Seahawks by himself. Watch out for him. I’m taking the Bears (-8.5).

Game Four: New England Patriots (12-4) at San Diego Chargers (14-2)

This has the makings of a great game. The MVP of the league against a Super Bowl MVP should be a great game. Tom Brady didn’t get his annual Pro Bowl selection this year and I think he is a bit miffed. The man who took his spot is Philip Rivers. Rivers, in his first year as a starter, played well enough to be voted to Hawaii over Tom Brady. Of course, he played that well because he had LT2 playing right behind him, beside him, and in front of him. Sure, Rivers is a talented player, but not talented enough to make the Pro Bowl on this team without #21. All this year I have gotten burned by the Chargers and their top running back. Not again. Even though I think Brady comes out firing, I think the Chargers take the game by a touchdown. I’ll take the Chargers (-5).

NFL Picks - Wild Card Weekend

And so...the playoffs begin. With two games on Saturday and two more on Sunday, 2007 is starting off with a bang. This year, more than ever, there have been upsets galore. I cannot remember a season where there have been so many games where the result has been so startling. So how does one know who to bet on? I think that with a little research, winners can be found.Game One: Kansas City Chiefs (9-7) at Indianapolis Colts (12-4)

The Colts reputation in the playoffs precedes them. Everyone knows all about how their regular season dominance quickly turns to losses in the postseason. People know that Indy’s run defense has more holes than a putting green, but it’s what people forget that gives us our winner. People forget that the Chiefs are a terrible road team. I think the Colts are under the radar a little bit, for the first time in years, which gives them a better shot to advance in my mind. The pressure is off, which will lead to big numbers this weekend. I’ll take the Colts (-7).

Game Two: Dallas Cowboys (9-7) at Seattle Seahawks (9-7)

This game might just be the toughest to pick this weekend. Two teams with the same record, the money is split right down the middle, and the line hasn’t moved from where I honestly feel it should be. That being said, I think injuries will be the deciding factor in this game. Dallas is fairly healthy, while Seattle is missing its top three cornerbacks. The Cowboys want nothing more than to run the ball all day. If the Seahawks have to keep the safeties deep all day to help the corners, I see Jones and Barber having big games. If Seattle brings the safeties up to stop the run, T.O. and Glenn could have even bigger days. I’ll take the ‘Boys (+3) in Seattle.

Game Three: New York Jets (10-6) at New England Patriots (12-4)

The Jets are in the playoffs? Did anyone see this coming? If you say yes...you are probably a liar. If you say yes and you aren’t a liar, you should be writing this column instead of me. I think the Pats are a little banged up, a little too old, and a little too confident about this game. Sure, New England will make it to next week, but the Jets' young coach will keep them in this game until the end. Who knows, without their stud kicker, the Pats might even blow this one. I’m going J-E-T-S-JETS JETS JETS (+8.5).

Game Four: New York Giants (8-8) at Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)

At the start of the season, if someone had told me this would be a first round playoff match up, I would not have thought twice about it. After Week 8 of the season, I would have first asked you what you were on, and then asked if I could try some. Now? I still want to try some…but I want even more to pick the winner of this game. The Giants are a team that doesn’t really know which way they are going half the time. The Eagles meanwhile, have been as steady as they come the last 5 weeks. I’ll take the Eagles (-7) and their consistent success this weekend.

Week 16 NFL Picks

Ok, so last weekend didn’t go exactly as planned. Then again, nothing really does. This weekend, the games are ripe for the picking and yours truly is here to help those in need during the holiday season. [Don’t try to tell me that that credit card bill doesn’t scare you a little in light of all the shopping that needed to be done.]

I now stand at 23-14 on the season in the NFL and I plan on increasing my win percentage greatly this weekend. I vow to right the ship I wronged last weekend, and lead it straight back to the Port of Victory [not a real place, don’t Google it]. The only question I have is, are you brave enough to follow?


Game One: Baltimore Ravens (11-3) at Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7)

As bad as the Steelers were at the start of this season, they have won enough recently to keep themselves alive in the playoff hunt. By winning 5 of their last 6 games, Pittsburgh has fought its way back from 2-6, and can go above .500 with a win at home on Sunday. And what a win it will be. The Steelers are looking to pay back the Ravens for the 27-0 beating they took in Baltimore just a month ago. I look for Willie Parker and the rest of the Steelers to show their heart in this game, and take a win from their division rivals. Take the Steelers (-3) and have a wonderful Christmas.

Game Two: New England Patriots (10-4) at Jacksonville Jaguars (8-6)

The Patriots can clinch the AFC East this weekend with a win, but they can also clinch with a loss by the Jets. In other words, the absolute need is not there. The Jaguars on the other hand, need this win to help keep their playoff hopes alive. A team at home in need is always worth more than a team on the road who doesn’t really feel that desperation yet. Also, the Jaguars have been a terrific home team this season. I’ll take the Jags (-3) on Sunday in what should be a great game for the holidays.

Game Three: Tennessee Titans (7-7) at Buffalo Bills (7-7)

With all the talk about the Titans and quarterback Vince Young lately, this game would appear to be an easy pick. Who wouldn’t like a hot team (winners of 5 straight) getting five points against a team with the same record? The answer is me, that’s who. What people aren’t paying attention to is the play of the other quarterback in this game, J.P. Losman. His play of late (101.5 QB rating over the last 5 games) has really gotten this team playing like a winner. Also, the Titans line looks a little fishy to me. It is about time Vince Young learned what it’s really like to be a rookie QB in the NFL, and Buffalo has the defense that can teach him that lesson. I’m taking the Bills (-5) and suggesting you do the same.

Game Four: Washington Redskins (5-9) at St. Louis Rams (6-8)

The Redskins won me a nice chunk of change last weekend, beating a tough Saints team on the road. With Washington on the road again this week, I expect the same result. Jason Campbell is a nice quarterback who can manage a game when his running game is working. The Rams cannot stop the run, so I look for Betts to have a big day. Most importantly though, the Skin’s defense will dominate from start to finish and give Washington a nice holiday gift. Take the Skins (+2) and give yourself that same gift.

Week 15 NFL Picks

Ok, so I didn’t go 4-0 last week. I actually ended up at 2-2. Some would tell you that a push week is good enough in sports gambling, and most times I would agree. But I set higher standards for myself than I do for others. With that in mind...this week I go big.

I’m still looking good at 22-11 on the season, but anything less than 3-1 this weekend will be a bust. Wouldn’t you like a little extra cash around the holiday season? Of course. Are you going to tell me they couldn’t use some extra spending money? Is anyone that rich? If you are, then more power to you. If not, wouldn’t you like to be? Join me this weekend and cash in on the big winners I will provide. Here’s hoping you have a happy gambling weekend.

Game One: Detroit Lions (2-11) at Green Bay Packers (5-8)
The Lions just aren’t having a season to remember. Actually, it’s more of a season to forget. They are 2-11, just lost their top running back for the season, and have to play against Brett Favre and the Packers this weekend in Green Bay. The Packers are going for their 15th straight win at home against the Lions. Yes, 15th straight home win against a team that just lost a key player. I think the streak could very well stay alive this weekend, but I do not like the line. I’m taking the Lions (+5.5) on Sunday, won’t you join me?

Game Two: Miami Dolphins (6-7) at Buffalo Bills (6-7)
As strange as this may sound, these two teams are still fighting for a playoff spot. It certainly has been a while since the Dolphins and Bills were involved in that race, but it has been a long time coming. These two teams are pretty evenly matched and in a division game, anything can happen. I just love Nick Saban and the Dolphins defense. Something tells me he will have something up his sleeve for this one, and I’m going to be apart of it. I’ll take the Dolphins (+1) to get back to .500.

Game Three: Washington Redskins (4-9) at New Orleans Saints (9-4)
The Saints are a having one terrific season. Drew Brees is having an MVP year, Reggie Bush is finally showing that he is the top talent we all thought he was, and Sean Payton should win Coach of the Year. The Saints are in the middle of an NFC East 3-spot after beating Dallas last week. Next week, they travel to N.Y. to face the Giants. That means this weekend is that classic letdown game I love to bet on. A team completely in shambles between two playoff contenders is just ripe for the picking. I’m going Skins (+10).

Game Four: St. Louis Rams (5-8) at Oakland Raiders (2-11)
This is it folks, the big game of the weekend. There is no game this weekend I like more than this one. The Raiders are a horrible team. It is so obvious; I dare you to make a case against that statement. Go ahead and try...it cannot be done. How can a team widely thought of as the worst in the league (by a large margin) be giving three points on Sunday? Simple, the people who make the lines know more than anyone. This is an obvious suck-in game, and I will not fall into the Vegas trap. If you read this, I hope you don’t either. I’m going Raiders (-3) this weekend all the way to the bank. Wow, I can’t believe I just said that…