1 week down 1 week to go

So the first week of the Olympics are in the books and Team USA is kicking the world's ass, thank you all for participating, now go home. Here are my observations after the end of the first week.

Biathalon is very interesting sport, I believe it could be incorporated into the Summer Games, somehow using the women's volleyball teams. 6 foot tall, bikini clad women with rifles is curiously erotic.

Last night's performance by Apollo Ohno in the semi qualifying 1000M round was spectacular. If you missed it, he won by a few inches of a skate blade.

Is curling perhaps the best sport ever invented? I know understand why the Winter Games take 18 days, because curling matches take forever. The game has 9 ends, much like baseball has 9 innings and the matches seem to last as long. This sport has timeouts? Why? I believe that the company which makes the Swiffer, has missed a huge opportunity with the Winter Games. They should have manufactured the brushes the curlers use, just another lost opportunity.

What is up with the Norwegian men's curling team's pants? They are wearing the upstart Loudmouth golf pants which remind me of the Zubaz pants of the 1980's which were just as obnoxious.

Men's figure skating saw an American, Evan Lysacek win a gold medal for the first time in 20 years and it wasn't without controversy. Silver medalist, Yevgeny Plushenko was upset that he completed a quad and Lysacek didn't and the Russian ended up with a silver. Word to ya brother, yes you completed a quad, but the rest of your jumps were very very sloppy you arrogant freak.

What the hell is a triple lutz? I thought Lutz was a town just east of Tarpon Springs Florida.

The men's and women's skeleton. This ice racing event is the same as the Luge, except you run head first and use a smaller sled. Wonderful. This sport most likely got it's name because if you crash, your skeleton is all that is left.

I watched some of the men's bobsledding last night. What is up with the outfits? These suits make shrink wrap look like a pair of cotton Chinos. Hell, you could tell each racer's religion by just simply watching.

Tonight is the much anticipated hockey match-up between Team USA and Canada. Let's go USA!!!!! Crush Canada like a bug at a picnic.

Let the Games begin!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Following the tragic death of Georgia Luger, Nodar Kumaritashvili, 21, the 21st Winter Olympic games in Vancouver opened last night. While the games opening ceremony was not as eye popping and jaw dropping as the 2004 Summer Games, but remember that 1 billion people live in China and more people live in California than in the entire country of Canada. Nonetheless, it was quite a spectacle and the producers use of 72 different projectors around the arena which acted simultaneously created some very vivid and rich images. So as I watched the opening ceremony, of course I had to make just a few observations.

Prior to the start of the events, NBC aired the video of the remake of the song, We are the World, where over 80current recording artists participated the song in which the proceeds will go towards the Haiti earthquake relief. I remember when the original song was recorded and 25 years ago I could name every artist in the room. Last night as I looked on, I wondered, am I really getting old or do I just care less and less about self absorbed celebrities?

During the hours long epic coverage, Coca Cola aired a commercial which featured a snowball fight in the Olympic village. This commercial was funnier than 99% of the commercials which aired during the Super Bowl, and I bet it cost a lot less.

Differing from the Summer Games, the Winter Games allow the athletes to enter the arena to watch the ceremony prior to the start. I couldn't help but be struck with irony as Joe Biden was watching Team USA entering the arena as they were wearing hats with moose on them. Just the whole Sarah Palin thing hit me. The Canadians had mittens on with little maple leaves sewn in the palms of the mittens. We get it already Canada, you are all about the maple leaf. (even though you didn't adopt the current flag for your nation until the 1960's. Please. At least we picked a flag and stuck with it for a few hundred years)

Then as all the country's athletes had their butts in their seats, out comes Nellie Furtado and Bryan Adams. Nellie wearing a blue dress which looked like body paint was used to apply it. Nellie is a very beautiful woman but two words here, Jenny Craig. Much more Canadian bacon and you won't be fitting into the front seat of a Humvee. To close out the show, the organizers trotted out K.D Lang. Wow. Bryan Adams and K.D. Lang? What were they thinking? If the whole production fell apart, they could always revert back to a quick 1986 retro closing show? And what the hell was up with the outfit Lang was wearing? She looked like she just flew in from Vegas, where she is a doing 6 shows a week as an Elvis impersonator.

So the performance starts, and the voiceover is from Donald Sutherland. I had no idea that Jack Bauer's father was from Canada.

During the first portion of the show, a giant polar bear is inflated at one end of the stage. I really think the bear wasn't a bear at all. It was the stay-puff marshmellow man from the GhostBusters movies. It's a tough economy and he's got to find work where ever he can.

The rest of the production was pretty good, but the fiddle segment was troubling. After the dude with the imp-ish looking hair was done fiddling in the canoe, the stage exploded into a myriad of fiddling and tap dancing performers. The key focus was on the man on top of the wedding cake looking stage, and he was fantastic on the fiddle, but were those really tattoos or did his daughter just go crazy on his chest with a Sharpie a few days before the opening of the games when he fell asleep after too much Molsen Golden? He later broke into some scat tap dancing, but his outfit reminded me of a cross between Larry the Cable guy and some guy wanting to wash my windshield in Tampa on my way to a Bucs game.

After the performances were over, the Governor General of Canada declared the games open. When did Wanda Sykes take political office in Canada?

The Olympic torch ceremony was nice in the arena, as the top 4 athletes in Canadian history all did a relay inside the facility. Is Catrina Lemay Doan, Katies Couric's long lost sister?

The only glitch of the entire performance occurred while trying to raise the 4 pillars which would surround the cauldron housing the Olympic flame. 3 of the 4 went up. Memo to self: Don't purchase any hydraulic parts manufactured in Canada.

Does anyone else think Biden was drunk at the post ceremony interview? He was an absolute joke as the man one heartbeat away from the office of President. I've never heard a VP use terms such as Dude or Awesome. He wouldn't even give his wife an opportunity to answer questions asked by NBC correspondent Lester Holt.

Overall, it was a very nice ceremony and I look forward to watch Team USA run the table on the rest of the world. Best of luck to all the athletes and enjoy the next 16 days.

Jiminy Cricket wins an award

ProFootballtalk.com announced today that NBC color commentator, Chris Collinsworth has won the Pat Summerall award. The what? Is the prize a case of Jack Daniels or a commemorative shot glass? The past winners of the award include James Brown, Greg Gumbel, Jim Nantz and Chris "Boomer" Berman. Jiminy Cricket and Chris Collinsworth were separated at birth.

Sure, one is 6'5" tall and the other is 3 inches. One has actually gone to Walt Disney World and the other wanted to but never won a Super Bowl. One of them is the voice of conscience for Pinocchio and the other is an annoying voice in Al Michaels ear. One of them went on to do a cameo in Who Framed Roger Rabbit, and the other does work with Roger Rabbit, oh thats right it's Keith Olberman.

Collingsworth has won over 5 Emmy awards, further proving that award shows are highly overrated and irrelevant. Chris is one of the most overrated announcers in football with a pitchy voice and quick to crown each player as the greatest ever. He has made my list of the most annoying sports announcers, joining the likes of Tony Kornheiser, Joe Theisman, Joe Buck and Tim McCarver.

So, in a moment of self importance, the members of the media have gathered to crown one of their brethren with a phony piece of hardware. So in the spirit of Pat Summerall, raise your glasses in a toast, (or bottles) and hail Chris Collinsworth. And in the spirit of Emmitt Smith, I guess he "blowed out" the competition.

AFC Championship game

We have only three games left in the NFL's 2009 season folks and then we dive into the "black hole of nothing to watch" which swallows us alive for the next 8 months. Sure, some of us who are football junkie's will await the free agency signing period, but that will likely be clouded with the Collective Bargaining Agreement going by the wayside on March 5th. Those of us with the NFL Network will watch some of the Combine workout. Even the draft this year has changed, the NFL decided to spread the 7 round draft over 3 days of television coverage. Really? This will be a very confused and chaotic off season especially with the possibility of an owner's lockout looming for 2011. The only good news is that after this weekend, I might never have to watch another Jimmy Football Tailgate tested Tailgate approved Budweiser commercial ever again, quite possibly the worst commercial campaign ever created for a Budweiser product.

Prior to last weekend, nearly everyone (except Jets fans) expected the San Diego Chargers and Indianapolis Colts squaring off this Sunday. I guess teams which lay down late in the season should be careful for what they wish for because Indy, look who's coming to dinner on Sunday. The J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets are a good, solid defensive football team with a running attack which averaged over 170 yards a game in the regular season. Coached by Rex Ryan, son of Buddy Ryan(Google him if you are too young to remember the 1985 Chicago Bears) the Jets are playing very physical smart football right now. While watching the Chargers-Jets game this past Sunday, I thought back to the Ravens of 2000 and my beloved Buccaneers of 2002. All three teams finished the season with the number 1 ranked defense in the NFL. All three had strong running games and the numbers are strikingly similar. The 2000 Ravens scored an average of 20.8 points and yielded 10.3. The 2002 Bucs scored 21.6 points for and surrendered 12.2 per game. This year's Jets are putting up 22 a game and allowing 15 through the playoffs. Yes, the Ravens and Bucs both won the Super Bowl in those years and defense does win championships. Will defense translate into the first Jets Super Bowl in 41 years this year? No.

The difference between the Super Bowl winning teams from the Ravens and Buccaneers in comparison to this years Jets, is the quarterback position. In 2000, the Ravens had a pedestrian Trent Dilfer under center. The Fresno State product had a strong arm in Tampa but when he arrived in Baltimore, he was coached into the position of a game manager. Jon Gruden took over the reigns in Tampa at the start of the 2002 season and inherited a 33 year old journeyman quarterback in Brad Johnson. Brad was another game manager in Gruden's version of the West Coast Offense.

What is lacking for the Jets, is leadership under center. Mark Sanchez is a true rookie quarterback who has benefited from a strong defense and running game with the Jets running over 60% of the time. Sanchez turned the ball over 20 times this season while having 5 games with multiple interceptions. He only threw for more than 200 yards 4 times, never completed more than 20 passes in a game, and only 5 times had 30 or more attempts. If the Colts jump out to a quick double digit lead, I think Sanchez isn't prepared to lead this team back from a deficit to win.

What to look for from the Jets-
Very obvious here. More of the same. Shonn Greene has been on a tear in the last four games, with 73 carries-420 yards and a 6.0 yard per carry average. Shonn is starting to take over the lead back role for the Jets, though the ageless Thomas Jones is still effective.

The Jets defense must mix up their schemes, though Peyton Manning is the best in the game at changing up plays at the line. Again, the obvious is defensive line pressure on Manning, but I seriously think the pressure is going to have to be applied by the Jets secondary by closing off the second and third receiver if they want to win.

The Jets need to keep this game close at half-time. Manning saw the Jets in week 15 when they needed to win and the Colts were laying back.

What to look for from the Colts-
Indianapolis's running game isn't as strong as New York's. I forecast some token running plays early on in the game but the majority of plays should be with a single back either left in to pick up a blitzer if the Jets mount a pass rush or swinging the back outside to create a mismatch on the linebacker.

I expect to see many three step drop passes and slant patterns. Jets cornerback Darelle Revis, the best cover corner in the league, last week against the Chargers, rotated off Vincent Jackson. I'll be interested to see if he matches up all game against Reggie Wayne, or the defense scheme rotates him over to cover Dallas Clark. Either way, I don't expect the usual stars to shine against this defense. Look for either Pierre Garcon or Austin Collie in the 3 wide set to excel and one of them will have a surprisingly big day.

Performance predictions-

Jets-
Shonn Grenne- 21-94-1TD
Thomas Jones-13-44-0

Mark Sanchez-19-31-172-1TD-2INT

Colts-
Joseph Addai/Donald Brown combined- 24-65 yards-1TD

Pierre Garcon-7-88-1TD
Reggie Wayne-8-90-0
Dallas Clark-7-66-1TD

Peyton Manning-27-40-277-2TD-1INT


Final Score-
Indy20- New York 16

Divisional weekend games

This weekend will be the start of the final seven games of the NFL season. I was gutted last week with my predictions, after a documented 70% prediction record straight up all season long. A 1-3 record with an almost spot on prediction of the Bengals-Jets game, other than that, I was totally in the tank. Regular readers know though that I did predict back in September prior to opening week, I predicted the Super Bowl between New Orleans and San Diego, with New Orleans winning 39-28. At least, I've made the final eight in the playoffs.

Cardinals vs Saints Sat. 4:30pm
Arizona is fresh off a record setting performance in last weeks game against Green Bay. From a fantasy football player standpoint, I wish that game could have continued through the entire OT period. The Saints in the last part of the regular season have not been the dominant team they were in week 10. The Cardinals have been a very streaky team all year and rumors surfaced after the Packers game, that Kurt Warner might just retire at the end of the season.

I fully expect this game to go over on the current line, which is 57 points. Profootballtalk.com is reporting this afternoon that the Saints have resigned runningback Deuce McAllister. Duece is a hometown favorite in New Orleans but hasn't played in over a year. The signing could be a handout to bring a player back for a possible playoff run who means so much for the team, or it could mean that Pierre Thomas's rib injury and Mike Bell aren't fully ready to go.

Either way, the Superdome is going to be one noisy place to play and the Cardinals have had a short week. I expect another offensive shootout, but the Saints move on.

Predictions,
Warner 29-43-380-3td's-2ints
Brees 31/39-355-3td's-0 ints

Saints over the Cardinals 38-34.

Ravens vs. Colts. Sat. 8:30 pm
Memo to the NFL, can we move back to the old playoff format where games in the playoffs were held at 1 and 4pm? Nearly everyone I spoke with this week is sick and tired of these playoff games starting after 8pm. Could someone in Goodell's office possibly look at the ratings in baseball with the World Series starting with the first pitch starting after 8pm? I understand it is the Colts, but as marketable as Peyton Manning is, not everyone in America is in love with him. Peyton pimps himself out to nearly every company that will endorse him, short of feminine hygiene products and filling in for the late Billy Mays.

These two teams met back in November and Indy and squeaked out 17-15 win. The Colts have been off for two weeks, and down the stretch, haven't played a complete game for 4 quarters since week 14. It does appear that the Colts will be fully healthy for this game, even though they have listed 20 players on the 53 man roster to the injury list.

Baltimore will keep this game close, but in the end, the Colts have too many weapons. I just think back to the early season game the Colts played against the Dolphins. Miami controlled the clock for over 45 minutes of the game, but still lost. I believe Manning is pissed off after losing the chance at the perfect season and will find a way to win this game late.

Ray Rice 27-131-1td
Flacco 16-31-175-1td
Manning 33-49-340-3td's

Colts 27 Ravens 24

Cowboys vs. Vikings. 1pm Sunday
In my opinion, this will be the best game of the weekend. The matchup between these two teams in the 1970's created the Hail Mary pass as Roger Staubach launched one up for Drew Pearson in the endzone to win the game. There is alot of offensive firepower coming to the table in this one.
Dallas is on fire right now. Tony Romo is actually playing some great football for the Cowboys and the Vikings stumbled down the stretch. Marion Barber, who has really underachieved this season, is dealing with some knee issues, so Felix Jones and Tanard Choice will carry the running load for the Cowboys. Percy Harvin looks as if he will play this Sunday. Last year, Harvin's involvement in his college team offense made his quarterback look good, and early this year, Harvin's involvement made Favre look good. His return will be the difference this weekend in what I predict to be the highest scoring game of the weekend.

Miles Austin 11-167-2td's
Adrian Petersen-22-137-2td's
Favre 21-38-280-3td's-2ints
Romo 26-41-340-3td's-2ints.

Vikings win this game simply on Favre's will at the end. Vikings 38 Cowboys 37

Jets vs Chargers. 4:40pm Sun.
In week 6 of the regular season, I made the bold prediction that the 6-0 Denver Broncos would be the first team to start 6-0 and miss the playoffs. Denver didn't get a ticket to the playoffs. San Diego made a pretty remarkable run which was overshadowed by what was happening in Indy and New Orleans at the time. San Diego, which suffered early in the year on run defense, has put together one hell of a run here on the playoffs. I believe Phillip Rivers is the best quarterback that not many folks know about.

Some pundits will say the Jets backed into the playoffs, but I'll tip my hat to Rex Ryan, the team is playing lights out defense right now but I believe their run in the playoffs comes to an end this weekend. Darrelle Revis is the best shutdown corner I've seen since Deion Sanders, but he isn't going to be enough this Sunday to handle all the weapons San Diego has.

T. Jones 21-84-1td
M. Sanchez 13-34-145-0td's-3ints
P. Rivers 22-36-290-3td's

Chargers win 31-19

Wildcard weekend part 2

Blogspot isnt allowing any discussion.
Patriots win 27-19 over Ravens
Packers win 36-29 over Cardinals

Wildcard weekend, part 1

This weekend will see three matchups of teams which wrapped up week 17 against each other. Jets vs Bengals, Eagles vs Cowboys and Packers vs Cardinals. I believe that might just be an NFL record.

Saturday 4:30 NBC
Jets vs Bengals

Yes, I know the Jets blew the Bengals away last weekend, but they played the last game (8:30pm) of the regular season and Cincy had nothing to play for. The Bengals have been drifting aimlessly the last few weeks of the season while the team tries to deal with some tragic issues.
The Jets come into this game with the league's top rated defense and a strong running game. Thomas Jones has been an ageless wonder this season. New York is a 2.5 point underdog and the over/under is 34 points. Gametime conditions are really not that bad considering the frigid weather gripping the Nation. No repeat of the Bengals-Chargers January playoff game of 1981 where the windchill was -59 degrees. Actually, the temperature at kickoff in Cincinnati will be warmer than the temperature in Tallahassee Florida. Must be Global warming.....

I expect Darrell Revis to continue his mastery as the best shutdown corner in the league, with Chad Ochocinco being a non factor in the game. Carson Palmer passes for less than 220 yards, Ochocinco ends up with 5 catches for 42 yards, Cedric Benson has 22 carries for 74 yards and a touchdown. For the Jets, Sanchez will wind up with 140 yards passing, Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene wind up rushing for a combined 34 carries and 178 yards and 3 scores.

Jets 24 Bengals 16


Sunday 8:30pm NBC
Eagles vs. Cowboys

Eagles coach Andy Reid is one of the better coaches in the league when it comes to matching up players. Last week, with the NFC East division crown on the line, Dallas coach Wade Phillips pulled out all the stops to win that game and possibly save his coaching career. The Cowboys were up 17-0 at halftime, and I believe Coach Reid pulled in the game plan and positioned his team for the rematch this week in Dallas. Dallas is giving 3.5 points and the over/under is 45 points.

These teams know each other inside and out. As division rivals they meet twice a year, and I expect there will be a new wrinkle or two out of the Eagles tonight. It is difficult to beat the same team three times in one year. I expect the Eagles to put together a blitz package which will frustrate Tony Romo. While Miles Austin will get loose for 8 receptions for 120 yards and 2 scores, I expect DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin to combine for 14 catches and 215 yards and 3 scores.

Eagles 31 Dallas 26

NFC North review

Lord Favre returns, Aaron Rodgers becomes a leader, Jay Cutler bombs and Detroit is.........well Detroit.

My prediction:
NFC North
Green Bay 13-3
Minnesota 11-5
Chicago 9-7
Detroit4-12

Actual finish:
Minnesota 12-4
Green Bay 11-5
Chicago 7-9
Detroit 2-14

Back in September, I expected Brett Favre to suffer the late season failings he normally experiences. Yes, the Vikings lost games late in the season, but Favre threw for over 600 yards, 8 TD's and no interceptions in the last two games of the year. In fact, Favre threw for over 4200 yards while tossing 33 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions. So much for him winding down in the month of December.

Minnesota. As mentioned above, Favre was strong this year. The addition of draft choice Percy Harvin(who was sorely missed by Tim Tebow) made a strong push to be the offensive rookie of the year. Adrian Peterson, didn't rush for the league total yards this season, but the addition of Favre and Harvin allowed him to increase his touchdown production, which is more important.
The Vikings defense still has some gaps, especially in the secondary which will be exploited in the playoffs. Favre had a great season, and I have no doubt he'll return next season in purple.

Green Bay. I really believed that 2 playoff teams would come out of the NFC North this past September. I was correct, but I was wrong in how the teams would evolve from this division. I felt that Green Bay had the easier schedule back in September. That is the problem with looking at schedules before teams actually take the field. The Packers finished the season winning 7 of the last 8 games, but started the season with quarterback Aaron Rodgers getting beaten in the pocket worse than a red headed stepchild. Rodgers has proven himself to be a quality quarterback, and one tough SOB. The Packers defense came around this season as well and produced 40 turnovers. This is a team you are going to have to watch during the playoffs. I believe they will be in the NFC Championship game.

Chicago. What a wasted year. Chicago giving up virtually the entire 2010 draft for players like Jay Cutler and Gaines Adams, what a waste. Former Pro Bowl quarterback Jay Cutler, was sacked 35 times and threw 26 interceptions. Obviously, someone stole his jersey the final two weeks of the year since someone wearing his jersey threw for 550 yards and 8 touchdowns in 2 games. Chicago's defense went downhill as soon as Brian Urlacher was done for the season. The offensive line was non existent. Matt Forte was one of the biggest busts in fantasy football.
As a Bucs fan, I must say the Chicago front office is in much more disarray. The Bears actually gave up a 2nd round pick in this years draft for DE Gaines Adams. Wow. Put down the crack pipe. This is a team which should have finished 4-12 and doesnt have a draft pick until the 4th round, WOW. Maybe Obama will sign an executive order and give you guys 4 first round picks.

Detroit. What is there left to say about Detroit. The Lions are one of the oldest franchises in NFL history, but also one of the only teams never to have played in the Super Bowl. Detroit is 9-39 in the last 3 seasons, only to be outdone by St Louis who is 6-42. Matthew Stafford might very well be a great addition in Detroit, he showed his toughness during a game late in the year, but this team needs help at all positions. When Drew Brees was signed by the New Orleans Saints, he and his wife took out a full page advertisement in the New Orleans paper, and after Hurricane Katrina hit, Brees was very active in the community. Saints fans have filled the Superdome this year and rallied around Drew Brees. If I were Matthew Stafford, I'd take some of that huge guaranteed money from my contract last year, and pay undrafted college free agents from around Michigan to come tryout for the Lions during training camp. It couldn't hurt.

NFC South review

Hello and Happy New Year to my readers. Today is the first part of an eight part series reviewing each NFL division, looking at my preseason predictions and how the team eventually ended their respective seasons. Since I'm a Tampa Bay fan (and it's my blog) we'll be starting with the NFC South.

My prediction in September,
NFC South
New Orleans 12-4
Atlanta 7-9
Carolina 7-9
Tampa Bay 3-13

Final standings
New Orleans 13-3
Atlanta 9-7
Carolina 8-8
Tampa Bay 3-13

Atlanta and Carolina both finished up the season strong, winning 3 their last three games in a row. New Orleans hit a wall and dropped the last three. Tampa won 2 of the last three. The odd trend of the team which finished last in the NFC South in one season and finishing first in the next season continued this year. The Saints were 8-8 in 2008 and won the division in 2009. I believe this will be the last year this trend continues, more on that later.

New Orleans. The Saints came out on fire winning the first 13 games in a row. Early in the season, I thought they might be on pace to break the offensive team records of the 2007 Patriots. However, around week 8, injuries hit the defensive side of the ball and the Saints looked vulnerable. The result was two squeaker wins against division opponents, the Falcons and Panthers in weeks 8 and 9, but the Saints perhaps played their best game of the year against the Patriots in week 12.

The addition of defensive coordinator Greg Williams made a substantial difference for the Saints this year, while LB Jonathan Vilma and S Darren Sharper had superb seasons. On the offensive side of the ball, Drew Brees at times looked as if he could throw the ball through the eye of a sewing needle at 40 yards while rolling out to his left. The wide receiver position solidified itself as perhaps the best all around squad in the league, and the running back by committee approach worked for the Saints adequately.

The media is too quick to crown the Cowboys as the team to beat this year in the playoffs. Sean Peyton is one of the best playcallers in the NFL and I stand by my prediction this September of the Saints and Chargers in this years Super Bowl.

Atlanta. For the first time in 44 years, the Atlanta franchise has put together back to back winning seasons. The Falcons were a streaky team this year at one time losing 4 games in a row, then winning 3. Atlanta was a respectable 6-2 at home but a miserable 3-5 on the road. Matt Ryan went down in week 12 with a toe injury and Michael Turner missed multiple games late in the season with a high ankle sprain. There is a good foundation in place for Atlanta to be a strong team for several years to come.

Carolina. There are a few teams who would like to have a do over this season, and Carolina is one of them. Sensing his job might be on the line, John Fox in week 13 named Matt Moore the starting quarterback. Moore responded nicely (85-138 8TD's 2INTS 98.5 rating) and the team won 4 of the final 5 games. Jake Delhomme was the gift who kept on giving to opposing defenses by turning the ball over 20 times in 12 weeks and failing to move the offense. DE Julius Peppers recorded double digit sack totals (10.5) for the sixth time in his 8 year career.

Tampa Bay. My desire to see Raheem Morris replaced as head coach will not be realized this year. I believe the decision has more to with the uncertainty surrounding the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and the possible lockout in 2011 than anything else. The Bucs are paying Jon Gruden to sit in the Monday Night Football booth and would be on the hook for a salary of a high profile coach as well if there is no football in 2011. So the result Bucs fans, is a 6-10 season in 2010. This franchise has moved back into the dark ages of the 1980's.The Bucs have 5 picks in the first 99 selections in the upcoming draft, and I don't trust the current staff to use them wisely.

Tampa was simply horrible this season. The offense generated a paltry 15.2 points per game. The offensive line, filled with first and second round picks along with the highest paid center in the league, regressed. The three headed running attack of Williams, Ward and Graham, failed to deliver. Mike Clayton, signed to a ridiculous 15 million dollar contract last offseason, failed to deliver once again. The arrogant product from LSU finished the year, 16-230-1TD, and 5 of those catches for 93 yards were in the first game of the season. First round pick, Josh Freeman was inserted as the starter in week 9, after the bye as I had predicted that in September. While Freeman did show an occasional glimpse of potential, he turned the ball over 28 times in 10 games. Carnell Williams did make a remarkable recovery after two knee surgeries and accounted for over 1000 yards from scrimmage and 7 touchdowns. He should be given strong consideration for comeback player of the year in the league.

The defense. The Bucs played defense this year? Actually they finished the season ranked 10th against the pass, and that is due to the emergence of the shutdown corner, Aqib Talib. Talib started the year in trouble with the law for allegedly assaulting a taxicab driver in Tampa, but finished the season with 5 interceptions and showcasing the talent which made him a first round draft choice. Ronde Barber on the other hand, needs to retire. He was showing signs of slowing down in 2008, and this year failed to record an interception for the first time since becoming a starter in 1998. The defensive line only recorded 28 sacks with the leader being Stylez White with 6.5 sacks. Former draft picks Dre and Kyle Moore struggled to make it onto the field all year, sometimes Moore really is less. Tampa's defense was ranked dead last against the run.

Special teams. This was another disaster this season. The Bucs released Matt Bryant in the preseason and gave a large contract to former Jets kicker Mike Nugent. Nugent was gone a few weeks into the season. Tampa concluded this years campaign be using Indianapolis castoff Conner Barth for kicking duties. Kickoff and punt returner Clifton Smith suffered injuries but 2009 seventh round draft choice, Sammie Stroughter returned one for a score. In the final weeks of the season, Micheal Spurlock(the first man to return a kickoff for a touchdown in Tampa Bay history) was signed to return punts and he did just that in the victory over the New Orleans Saints.

There are a few green shoots at One Buc Place after this last year, but I just wonder if the Bucs have the right coaching staff in place to add some Miracle Gro and make this team respectable once again. Good news is, Detroit, Cleveland, Seattle and St Louis all come to RayJay this next season. 6-10 isn't out of the question.

Next up, the NFC North.

Last week folks. NFL done, NASCAR back again.

Ugh. It's the last week of the NFL season. Where the hell did that quarter of the year disappear to?
This late in the year, I went 12-4 in the straight up picks last week. Merry Christmas to ME!!!!
That brings the season picks to 161-78. 70% ratio. Hmmm. Just little ole me, at 70% on the straight up picks.

Well now we get to the worst week of the straight up picks, hell we are the worst week with points.

Indy vs. Buffalo. Fred Jackson runs for two scores. Indy loses again and misses the Super Bowl.

Jax vs. Cleveland. The O/U on this game is 39. Take the Under as it will be a running game. Cleveland wins.

Philly vs. Dallas. Lose this week, come back to Dallas next week, Minnesota lost last night. Philly wins by double digits.

Chicago vs. Detroit. Who really cares? I'm not picking either team.

Atlanta vs. Tampa Bay. Atlanta wins.

New Orleans vs. Carolina. Drew Brees gets dialed in against the Panthers, and wins large.

New England vs. Houston. Playoff status means nothing to New England, and Houston can still qualify. New England wins, but take the 8 points Houston is getting.

San Fran vs. St. Louis. Please. 49'er's destroy St Louis.

Pittsburgh vs. Miami Mullets- I'm taking Miami here.

NY Football Giants vs. Minnesota and diva Favre- That was a fantastic MNF game last night, but the Giants aren't going to bring game to the table at the Metrodome. The Vikings secure the 3rd seed in the NFC after beating the Giants.

Cincy vs. Jets. The Bengals are a mess the last few weeks. Take the Jets who need a win.

Green Bay vs. Arizona. Hmm. Wicked game. The Over/Under is 43 right now. Take the under. Arizona will win with Leinert at qb.

Washington Crackheads vs. San Diego. San Diego will continue on their path and beats Washington.

Tennessee vs. Seattle. Tennessee wins because they give Chris Johnson 50 touches on the ball.

Baltimore vs. Oakland. Baltimore wins easily.

Kansas City vs Denver. Denver tries to hold on to a playoff spot, but remember, I stated that Denver would be the first team to start 5-0 and miss the playoffs, KC wins.

Oh Brother, what a week..........

So a woman walks into the veterinarians office with a duck. She lays the duck on the vets table and says, what's wrong with my duck? The vet responds it's dead. I can't believe it says the woman, I want someone else to examine it. So, the vet takes the duck into another room and a golden lab sniffs the duck from head to tail, and concludes, it's dead. The woman still won't admit the duck is dead and wants another opinion. So, the vet takes the duck into a room where a cat sniffs the duck from head to tail and concludes once again, the duck is definitely dead. The woman finally relents and asks the doctor how much the office visit will be, and he responds, usually, 50.00 but since I had to send it to the lab and requested a cat scan, 300.00.

How are my jokes? Most likely as good as my picks. 8-8 this past week. I have been unable to pick a Thursday night game this year. And in the past few weeks my Monday night picks aren't much better. I was 14-2 in week 1 and 8-8 in week 15, are you kidding me? 149-74 overall. The Jets losing at home against the Falcons eliminated from the playoffs. Oakland beating Denver in Denver with a quarterback who had not played in years. Tampa winning in Seattle? Please. Minnesota tanking in Carolina? Why aren't 100.00 bills flying out of my ass?

I'm disgusted with many things happening in the Nation during this week, so no lovey dovey discussions regarding each game. Wake the hell up America, your freedom is being ripped from you as I type.

San Diego vs. Tennessee. San Diego
Buffalo vs. Atlanta. Atlanta
Kansas City vs. Cincy. Cincy
Oakland vs. Cleveland. Cleveland
Seattle vs. Green Bay. Green Bay
Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh. Baltimore
Houston vs Miami. Houston
Jacksonville vs. New England. New England
Tampa vs New Orleans. New Orleans
Carolina vs New York Giants. Giants
Detroit vs San Fran. San Fran
St Louis vs. Arizona. Arizona
NY Jets vs Indy. Indy
Denver vs. Philly. Philly
Dallas vs Washington. Dallas
Minnesota vs Chicago. Minnesota

I've played fantasy football for 12 years, and this season I had 5 teams, each one of my teams has reached the playoffs for the first time in my career, but I really could care less as I watch the Senate destroy this great Nation by passing a 2700 page bill that no one has yet to read, and Senators getting payoffs just for their vote. I'm so happy that the State of Nebraska will never have to pay federal Medicaid payments ever again, just so Harry Reid and his band of fucking crooks can ram this bill down our throats. If you think unemployment is bad now, just wait until June of 2010. Wake up people. This bill isn't about affordable healthcare, it's about Big Brother dictating every aspect of your life from here on out. How's the hoax and change working for ya now, suckers?

What the Hell?? Week 15

What a brutal week for those who try to predict football games. Every single Thursday night game this season, I've lost. This past Saturday, New Orleans looked flat. It was the worst game I've watched the Saints play all season, but they were still fighting until there were 9 seconds left.

Point spreads weren't an option this week and I'm sure bookies and Vegas raked in tons of cash Sunday. I had Arizona winning straight up and they did but failed to cover against the 28th ranked pass defense in Detroit. Atlanta came out of no where with Matt Ryan starting as a surprise and managing a weak win. Atlanta was eliminated from the playoffs with Dallas's win over the Saints, they are a dome team traveling to New Jersey after record snowfall and they win. Are you freaking kidding me? Houston only manages to beat the Rams by 3? Oakland travels to Denver as a 14 point underdog while starting a quarterback who hasn't played in 2 years and won straight up. You've got to be kidding me. Minnesota was a 10 point favorite heading to Carolina Sunday night. Carolina had Mandy, I mean Matt Moore under center, lost DeAngelo Williams early and has lost both starting tackles for the season, yet pulled off a beatdown on a Vikings team which doesn't travel well.

Finally, in the worst game of the week, The Bucs traveled to Seattle as a 7 point underdog and won outright 24-7, while forcing 5 turnovers. You have got to be kidding me. Way to go Junior. At 1-12, and a chance to get Suh in the draft, you win the game and drop the Bucs draft spot down to at least 3rd currently. Do you think you might sneak 2 wins in during the final 3 weeks and save your job for next year? All I want for Christmas is to see your happy ass gone and an actual head coach with experience replace you. Oh, that's right, we had one. I disagreed with Gruden ALOT. However, this team would not be 2-12 if he had stayed.

Deja Vu, all over again?

If the playoffs were to start today, I know, all bets are off during the last two weeks of the season, but an interesting scenario is evolving. The NFC playoff participants seem more in place than the AFC with New Orleans, Minnesota, Philadelphia, and Arizona atop their respective divisions. Dallas and Green Bay appear to be locks for the wildcard spots. With New Orleans and Minnesota heading towards an apparent first round bye, week 17 will make for some interesting positioning for the last 4 teams likely to extend their seasons into January. Dallas hosts Philadelphia in the final week of the season and Green Bay travels to Arizona.

With Arizona and the winner of the NFC East getting the #3 and #4 seeds, week 17 games will set up a virtual rematch for the wildcard round of playoff games. I can remember in the past a team finishing the season and then playing them the next week in the playoffs, however, I can't ever recall 2 teams finishing the season only to face the same opponent the first week of the playoffs.

This lays out the groundwork for very fascinating football the last week of the year.

March to the playoffs continues.

I predicted this would be a bad year for the Bucs back in August while suggesting they would put 3 games in the win column, but that looks daunting at this point. Junior Morris has commented this past week that he is bored with being the head coach. Well, that must be because the team is functioning on a cylinders right now and that the team basically runs itself. Yeah, right. All I want for Christmas is a firing of Morris on January 4th, 2010, and a competent head coach put in place. I don't trust Morris in choosing the players in next year's draft with the Bucs selecting as high in the draft as they'll be.

Around the league, Indy and New Orleans are cruising towards a perfect season, though the Horseshoes head coach said that they would be resting players during the final two games. New England looks shaky with a banged up Tom Brady and Randy Moss laying down early in games.
Baltimore looks like they are making a push for a wildcard spot, despite losing at Green Bay 2 weeks ago. The Jets are in the hunt but after this weeks contest, they have to play Indy and Cincy. Green Bay certainly has been playing strong as of late. San Diego has reeled off 8 in a row and might be the third best team in the league.

Picks were 11-5 last week and the season record so far is 141-66.

Thursday Night
Indy at Jacksonville.
This game opened in Vegas on Monday morning with the Horseshoes being a 6.5 favorite and today, it's down to 3 points. Jacksonville has too much on the line in this matchup and will be playing in front of a soldout stadium for the first time in several seasons. Jacksonville wins by 2 on a late field goal.

Saturday Night
Dallas at New Orleans.
The Saints were my preseason favorites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl and this team is playing as well as anyone in the league right now. The Superdome will be rockin, mass quantities of beer will be consumed, thousands of crawfish will be eaten while the fans watch the Saints roll over the Cowboys in a double digit win. The Cowboys wish the playoffs would start the week after Thanksgiving as they play horrible in December. The Boys will miss the playoffs again this season. At least Jerry Jones has a big screen tv at his new stadium to watch the playoffs on.

New England at Buffalo.
The wheels are falling off in New England and if they don't get it get it back on track soon, they too, will be watching the playoffs at home. The Pats win a low scoring contest 19-13.

Arizona at Detroit.
Arizona turned the ball over 7 times in San Francisco Monday night. Detroit has been outscored by over 100 points in the last three games. Arizona locks up the NFC West division by 4pm Sunday after pummeling the Lions.

Miami at Tennessee.
The Titans started the season by dropping 6 straight games, then won 5 in a row. It appears that Vince Young might miss this weeks game and if he does, it will be reflected in Chris Johnson's production. Miami is playing for a wildcard spot and wins this week.

Cleveland at Kansas City.
Who stole the Brown's uniforms last week? 8 sacks? A win against Pittsburgh? Will they make it two in a row? Yes. The Chiefs are horrible and Matt Cassel simply isn't the same quarterback without Randy Moss and Wes Welker. Break up the Browns, they win two in a row.

Houston at St Louis.
It's a little too late for the Texans. They have had problems at running back all season long and quite simply are one of the most underachieving teams in the NFL this season. St Louis is , well, St Louis and their offensive line is down to just two starting guards. Houston puts up huge numbers against a team which should be playing in the NCAA Div II.

Atlanta at J-E-T-S. Jets Jets Jets.
The Falcons have never had back to back winning seasons in franchise history and with Matt Ryan and Michael Turner out, they just may continue that trend this year. The forecast calls for possible snow in the Meadowlands this Sunday, the Jets have a great defense and strong running attack. Jets move forward, maintaining playoff hopes.

San Francisco at Philadelphia.
You know the drill, a team wins on Monday night against a division rival and a west coast team comes east for a 1:00pm kickoff. The 49'ers are improved this year but not quite there yet. Philly marches towards a division title with a win.

Chicago at Baltimore.
Baltimore's Ray Rice is running as strong as any back in football right now, amassing 200 total yards and a score last week against the Lions. Chicago's Jay Cutler has lobbed 20 picks so far this year. The Bears have no offensive line, Matt Forte has really suffered a sophomore slump, they have no defense, a questionable kicker, but other than that, I guess it could be worse. Baltimore wins.

Cincinnati at San Diego.
Every time these two teams match up, I can't help but think about that classic matchup on January 10th, 1982, where the gametime temperatures were -9 on the field and the 35 mph winds caused the windchill temps to be near -50 at kickoff. That won't be a problem this week, kickoff will see the temps in the mid 60's in San Diego. Cincinnati lost to Oakland a few weeks back on the west coast and the offense is having trouble scoring points. Bad time of the year to have scoring problems. San Diego is red hot, and I'm wondering if Tomlinson can stay healthy in January this year.

Oakland at Denver.
How bad is your football team when you're crippled by Bruce Gradkowski being lost for the season? If that's not bad enough, your options at quarterback are JaMarcus Russel or Charlie Frye. Ouch. Denver wins easily.

Green Bay at Pittsburgh.
Snow in December at Heinz Field but the Steelers have nothing left to play for other than pride. Green Bay is cruising with 5 straight wins and they aren't going to let up in this one. Green Bay wins by a touchdown.

Tampa Bay at Seattle.
Tampa plays poorly on the west coast. Josh Freeman will be overwhelmed by the noise in Seattle's stadium and after throwing 8 picks in the last two games, that trend should continue. The Bucs haven't scored a touchdown in 2 games and most likely won't score one on Sunday either. Seattle wins.

Minnesota at Carolina.
Carolina has Matt Moore under center, and their strength has been the running game over the past few weeks. But, the Panthers have lost both starting tackles and Minnesota brings the Williams Wall on the defensive line with them. Minnesota must continue to win in order to obtain a first round bye or even homefield advantage in the playoffs. Favre tosses 3 scores and the Vikings cruise Sunday night.

Monday Night
New York Football Giants at Washington.
The Giants defense has been exposed. Washington has actually seen some offense after coordinator Sherm Lewis was hired mid season. Washington wins a home game over a division rival.

Journalism is dead, part deux.

I know, you are all tired of the Tiger Woods stories, I am too, he's a dirtbag. However as I pointed out last weeks grammar issue on the ProFootballTalk.com website, let's take a look at tonight's article from the New York Daily News linked below. They claim that since the advent of the Tiger Woods scandal after Thanksgiving, Democrat Representative Joe Baca has scrapped his plans to bestow the Congressional Medal of Honor to Tiger Woods. MEMO to the NY Daily News, bestow means to give as a gift. The Congressional Medal of Honor is earned and awarded, not bestowed. My Great grandfather was awarded the medal twice for his service, and I have the family tree to prove I'm not some wacked out blogger. But what I find so offensive in this article is that the writer never questions the intent to bestow the Congressional Medal of Honor on Tiger Woods, who has never served in the military. This is what I find so disturbing about the 20year old somethings coming out of college and finally getting jobs in journalism. They were not taught proper history and they disregard those who remember it. Interesting enough, there is no rebuttal on Rep. Baca's website, and if you do not live in his district, he will not accept emails from you, and calls go directly to voicemail. This was going to be the most transparent administration in the history of US Government. How's that hoax and change working out for ya?


http://www.nydailynews.com/gossip/2009/12/09/2009-12-09_tiger_woods_texts_to_rachel_uchitel_alleged_mistress_no_1_reveal_tortured_affair.html

Phew!, A hell of a week.

Last week's picks stunk it up as I watched my first losing record of the season while going 7-9. Sure, I picked the Chiefs over the Broncos as a stretch pick. But, Bruce, the Polish Popgun Gradkowski, former Buc, looked like Roger Freaking Staubach against the Steelers in Pittsburgh. What's up with that? I did, however, predict a trap game for the Saints and suggested taking Washington and the 11 points. Those who did, won. Last week's dismal predictions have brought my selections to a season long record of 130-61.

Thursday Night
Pittsburgh V. Cleveland. Stick a fork in the Steelers, they are done for the season. That thought warms the hearts of many Brownie fans I'm sure, but it's always better to have something to root for than root against. The poor fans in Cleveland haven't had anything to root for in decades and it isn't looking better down the road. The climate change, Global warming blizzard, known as AlGore which is creeping across the Great Lakes region today will create a massive lake effect snow event for Thursday's game. Take the under on the points, and the Steelers will win.

Denver V. Indy. I have picked Indy to lose the past two weeks but I'm not picking them this week though. The Horseshoes can wrap up homefield advantage through the playoffs this week. This afternoon, the Colts said that career quarterback backup Jim Sorgi has been placed on IR with a shoulder injury. Manning will play this week and solidify homefield for the playoffs. It will be interesting to see what the Colts do with their starters for the final 3 weeks. Peyton has got to be just a bit happy with the turmoil over at Tiger Woods house, just think of all the new sponsors he can sign with after the first of the new year. Maybe advertising executives could create an all Manning all the time network, and in the offseason, the forehead could sell things just like the Home Shopping Network. Colts win.

Cincy V. Minnesota. Gray beard Favre threw nearly as many picks in Sunday night's game as he has all season. But the Vikings are going home to the friendly confines of the Metrodome, with the piped in crowd noise, where they are 6-0 this season. Cincinnati has never beaten Minnesota in Minnesota. Cincy has been weak against teams they should blow out, and while there are some injuries on Minnesota's side, Minnesota wins this game based on Favre's will. Close one, 30-27.

Jets V. Tampa Bay. Josh Freeman. For a few weeks you looked promising, but now in the last two games, you've turned the ball over 9 times. 4 picks last week in the endzone against a struggling Panthers team. You threw for over 300 yards, moved the team up and down the field, on the road, and scored 6 points? Last year, I posted Buc game recaps, this year, why bother. It appears that the J-E-T-S will be starting Kellen Clemens at QB this week instead of first round draft choice, Mark Sanchez. Didn't Kellen Clemens used to play saxophone for Bruce Springsteen and the E Street band? Don't touch the Bucs for the last 4 games of this season, the JETS win.

Buffalo V. Kansas City. If there would ever be a contraction of the number of NFL teams, these two should be prime candidates. Jamaal Charles runs wild in this one and KC (without the Sunshine Band) chalks up a win.

Green Bay V. Chicago. Green Bay is making their push towards the playoffs, Chicago is looking towards the April draft. Green Bay's defense is very underrated and does Chicago even have a defense? Green Bay wins large.

New Orleans V. Atlanta. I called the trap game last week with the Saints coming off a home game, in a dome, then going on the road outdoors. Real football should be played outdoors. However, this Saints team is clicking on all cylinders and will be playing indoors against a wounded Falcons team. Matt Ryan will most likely not be playing this week, Michael Turner will miss another start and their secondary is horrible. Saints win and give the points this week.

Detroit V. Baltimore. Detroit is 0-6 on the road. Baltimore is pissed off and on a short week. Take Baltimore to win with Ray Rice having a large game.

Miami V. Jacksonville. I've been up in the air here about this game. Jacksonville has one of the best running backs in the league in MJD, but I feel the Miami Mullets are going to bring lots of confidence into this game against a in state rival which has been all over the board this year. Miami wins a very close game.

Carolina V. New England. New England is going to lose 3 in a row? If they do, Tom Brady will have lots of time to spend with his new baby come January 3rd around 4pm. Pats win.

Seattle V. Houston. Two teams which have really disappointed me all year. I have Texans running back, Steve Slaton on one of my fantasy teams, and now he is out for the season. The Texans have much more talent than their record allows. Seattle has a 1-5 road record, but I feel Seattle gets the win here.

St Louis V. Tennessee. Please, no discussion here. Chris Johnson rushes for 200 yards and three scores. Tennessee wins by halftime.

Washington V. Oakland. I really thought I would be done discussing the Polish Pop Gun, Bruce Gradkowski after he left Tampa and had failed attempts in Cleveland and St Louis, but oh no, here he comes again. 3 touchdowns in the 4th quarter against Pittsburgh, are you kidding me? The Crackheads suck and are headed West, so the Raiders win number 5 for the year and 3 under the leadership of the bald one. Why couldn't you through 50 yards down the field when you were in Tampa?

San Diego V. Dallas. I mentioned last week that Dallas always takes the December dive, but I didn't think it was going to be against a Giants team with their own problems. Never underestimate the impact of a divisional game. Outside of Indy and New Orleans, the Chargers are playing lights out football. (remember, I predicted them in the AFC Championship game back in September) This will be a great game but San Diego comes away with win number 8 in a row.

Philadelphia V. New York Football Giants. The Giants have their backs up against the wall in this game, if they lose, they are done for the playoffs. McNabb is getting up there in age, Andy Ried just got a contract extension today and the Eagles continue their march towards the NFC East division title after beating the Giants in this Sunday night game.

Monday Night
Arizona V. San Fran. Nancy Pelosi is representing San Fran, I want them to lose every single game from here on out, sorry folks but until you fruits and nuts elect reasonable representation, you must lose. Arizona wins.

A Clean sweep of the post?

WOW! Less than two hours after my post regarding the grammar issues in Florio's post, the prediction website is updated with a new introduction to the first paragraph. That's fantastic.

The Patriots have only swept Miami twice in the Belichick area and they often struggle in Jimmy Buffet Stadium.


Patriots (7-4) at Dolphins (5-6)
1 p.m., CBS

The Dolphins aren’t any worse than the team that finished last season 11-5. Yet they are staring 5-7 in the face. A much tougher schedule and a propensity for fourth quarter collapses have ruined their season. (Opponents have outscored Miami 83-22 in the fourth quarter since their bye week.)

New England traditionally bounces back from tough losses with fury. They haven’t lost back-to-back games since 2006. But this is the second time in three weeks they are coming off a devastating loss and they are working on a short week. The Patriots have only swept Miami twice in the Belichick area and they often struggle in Jimmy Buffet Stadium.

This is a very dangerous game for the Patriots, but Miami’s secondary has too many holes for Tom Brady to throw in. Look for something different from these Pats: a fourth quarter comeback.

Pick: Patriots 31, Dolpins 28


Hmmm. How many times have the Patriots struggled in Jimmy Buffet Stadium?

And what exactly is the Bill Belicheck area?

Florio is a sell out and a loser unable to write complete sentences based on factual information.

Journalism is dead folks, thats why newspapers are dying

Below, is a game prediction from Mike Florio and Gregg Rosenthal. Mike Florio founded the popular website, profootballtalk.com. This year, Mike sold out to NBC and merged with the nbcsports.msnbc.com team. Mike runs a site which is many times driven by rumors, not near the comparison of the TMZ of pro football, but mostly, his site is feeds of stories run in papers from NFL hometowns. Over the years, his site has attracted a lot of attention and he had gotten sponsorship from Sprint shortly before merging with NBC sports. The site sees much shameless self-promotion with a focus on grammar, sentence structure, and fact checking.
Below is the compiled game day predictions from Mr Florios website on the NBC/MSNBC site regarding the upcoming Miami Mullets against the New England Patriots. I beg any 9th grade English teacher to show me how the first two sentences of the posting are grammatically correct.
The Dolphins play in Land Shark Stadium, not Jimmy Buffett Stadium. And look at the final score prediction, what the hell is a Dolpin? Now, if you are writing a blog for NBC, wouldn't you think there could be (A) some fact checking, (B) some spell checking, and lastly, some sentence structure checking? What happened to the AP style guide for journalism?
Florio, last time I checked, I was kicking your ass too in straight up picks this year, behind you guys over at ESPN and Sporting News. Line forms at the end around the corner.

Patriots (7-4) at Dolphins (5-6)
1 p.m., CBS

The Dolphins aren’t worse of a team than the one that finished last season 11-5. Yet they are staring 5-7 in the face. A much tougher schedule and a propensity for fourth quarter collapses have ruined their season. (Opponents have outscored Miami 83-22 in the fourth quarter since their bye week.)

New England traditionally bounces back from tough losses with fury. They haven’t lost back-to-back games since 2006. But this is the second time in three weeks they are coming off a devastating loss and they are working on a short week. The Patriots have only swept Miami twice in the Belichick area and they often struggle in Jimmy Buffet Stadium.

This is a very dangerous game for the Patriots, but Miami’s secondary has too many holes for Tom Brady to throw in. Look for something different from these Pats: a fourth quarter comeback.

Pick: Patriots 31, Dolpins 28

Road Rules week 13.

week 12 saw my picks at 10-6 to bring the season long record to 123-52. I believe that record is still above any of the "experts" over at ESPN, though Merril Hoge is close. We are in the stretch run for the playoffs and injuries are mounting as some teams scrap to get an invitation to play in the NFL's second season. This week, I believe we will see a road team domination.

Thursday night
Jets @Toronto Bills. The Bills play their first regular season game north of the border at the Rogers Center in Toronto. Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez is nursing a knee injury and I'm going with the Bills to win this "home" game.

Philly @ Atlanta. Matt Ryan will miss this weekends start with Chris Redman filling in for Atlanta this week. Redman was efficient last week versus the Bucs but will see a myriad of blitz packages this week. Sure, the Eagles are going to go without DeSean Jackson most likely this week(concussion), but Jason Avant should fill in nicely. Eagles continue their march towards the NFC East title.

St Louis @ Chicago. This week Jay Cutler might finally have some time to set up and throw the ball as the Rams have no pass rush. Good thing, because the Bears don't have an offensive line. Bears win at home. Matt Forte, 131 combined yards and 1 touchdown.

Detroit @ Cincinnati. Cincy didn't put as many points on the board last week against their divisional rival, but that should change this week. Jasmine's favorite team, the Bengals, are 13 point favorites this week and are 6-0 against the spread (ATS) in non conference games in the past two years. Cincy puts the pedal to the metal and wins by 20.

Oakland @ Pittsburgh. Big Ben should be back this week. Da Raydahs have had 10 days to get ready for the Steelers. Bruce "the Polish Popgun" Gradkowski will be figured out by the Steelers defense and another ugly showing by the Raiders is in store.

Tennessee @ Indy. This should be a great game this week. The Titans have won 5 in a row, and the Colts have yet to lose one this year. However, Tennessee is 9-2 against the spread when they've have 2 or more consecutive wins in the past 2 years. Indy is 13-30 ATS over the past 5 years against teams with losing records. The Colts finally lose this week.

Denver @ Kansas City. Yes, Denver won large, 26-6 against the Giants on Turkey Day, but the Giants are in a downward spiral. Denver is 0-7 ATS in the past 7 games when they were favored by 3.5-9.5 points and 1-8 ATS against teams with a losing record. Kansas City has nothing to lose. I'm taking Kansas City to beat their division rival outright behind Jamaal Charles running strong. Charles has 90 yards and two scores.

New England @ Miami. Did you all get to watch my preseason Super Bowl pick Saints put that beat down on the Pats? That upcoming NFC Championship game between the Vikings and Saints is going to be one for the ages. Miami is 0-6 against the spread in week 10-13 over the past 2 seasons. Brady and company are pissed off and will wear out the young corners of the Miami Mullets.

New Orleans @ Washington Crackheads. This is a classic trap game. The Saints are coming off an emotional win on a short week and traveling to an outdoor stadium against a weak team. Washington has covered the spread in the last three games and early in the week, they are a double digit underdog. I'll take Washington and the points but the Saints win.

Tampa Bay @ Carolina. Carolina's starting quarterback, Jake Delhomme has a broken finger on his throwing hand and it appears that the third year Oregon State product, Matt Moore will most likely start at quarterback. Steve Smith and DeAngelo Williams are both listed early in the week as questionable. The Bucs are 6.5 point underdogs and on the road for the second straight game. The Bucs win this game outright this week. I predict 4 turnovers by the Panthers, and the Bucs score 30 points for win number two of the year.

Houston @ Jacksonville. These two teams are the poster children for those teams which are classic underachievers. Matt Schaub has a monster day against one of the worst pass defenses in the league. Houston hangs around in the wildcard chase for another week.

San Diego @ Cleveland. San Diego comes in on fire, to the city where the river caught on fire, after running off 6 consecutive wins. Cleveland doesn't have a prayer.

Dallas @ New York Football Giants. Sure, the calender reads December and that should signal the annual meltdown for the Dallas Cowboys. It won't start this week against a Giants team which started 5-0 and is 1-5 in subsequent games in the past 6 weeks. The Cowboys meltdown starts next week as they face the Chargers, @New Orleans, @Washington, and Philly, the final month of the season. Cowboys win this week.

San Francisco @ Seattle. San Fran is still in the hunt for a wildcard spot as the Giants, Cowboys, and Falcons future is uncertain. Seattle has been horrible this season and seemingly, key players have been on the injury report week in and week out all season long. San Fran hangs around this week, wins and stays in the hunt.

Minnesota @ Arizona. Will Warner play this week? Will Favre finally have a bad game this season? Will I ever win the Florida Lottery? All three of these are valuable and important questions. The Vikings are having a season for the ages with a quarterback of the ages. Warner sits, Favre plays and I don't win the lotto again this week. Minnesota needs to keep pace with the Saints for home field advantage through the playoffs. Vikings win a close one, 37-31.

Monday Night
Baltimore @ Green Bay. Pittsburgh's slide over the past 3 games, have allowed Baltimore to get back into the thick of the AFC wildcard playoff hunt. Green Bay has won 3 in a row after losing in Tampa to the previous winless Bucs. Baltimore has more to lose in this game than Green Bay. Ray Lewis will have the Raven's defense amped up and they will win a close one on Monday Night Football, 23-19.

71 days until the Super Bowl and counting.........

The NFL season is too damn short. Fans of the game try to fill their love of the game by watching empty events such as the scouting combine, the draft, many of us huddle around to see who goes where at the start of free agency, and can't wait for training camp to open when we know all teams start anew and everyone is undefeated. It feels as if the season just started and now, there are 71 days until the culmination of the season this year in Miami.

My selections of the Vikings and Saints playing in the NFC Championship looks like it might be a reality. My fantasy teams (5) are all in first place in their respective divisions. Finally, my 3-4 win season for the Bucs looks to be a bit too generous.

The straight up pics last week went 12-4 and yesterday's choices were 2-1, that brings my documented picks on this blog so far this season to 115-47. Let's get to this week's selections.

Bengals vs. Browns. Brady Quinn had 27 fantasy points last week. He must have had some of that energy drink he pimps on tv before the game because I have no idea where that outburst of production came from. The Bengals, fell right into the trap game against Oakland. The Bengals (my Bengal cat Jasmine's favorite team) is at home and 5-0 vs. the division opponents. Cleveland is 0-4 in division. Jasmine is happy at 4:30pm EST as the Bengals cruise to a easy win.

Vikings vs. Bears. The ageless wonder, Lord Favre is showing no signs of breaking down as he did last season with the Jets. Then again, not every team has Adrian Petersen. The Bears offensive line is horrible and the Vikings will manhandle the Bears all afternoon. Vikings advance to 10-1.

Eagles vs Crackheads. I've been waiting to see Philly make a move towards a wildcard playoff spot, and now that the New York Football Giants got destroyed last night, Sunday's game will be the venue. These divisional games are always close and I think I will take the Crackheads +9 but the Eagles will win.

Miami Mullets vs. Toronto Bills. Ricky Williams has been reported over the past week with a chest injury, but worry not Mullet fans, he scores twice and you stay in the hunt for a wild card spot for at least another week at 6-5.

Seahawks vs Rams. Rams RB Stephen Jackson has missed practices this week and is experiencing back spasms. It's no wonder he has back spasms because this 30+ year old running back is trying to carry the entire team on his back. He's gotten 95 carries in the last 4 games, not to mention the catches out of the backfield. The only player with more total yards from scrimmage this year to date is Chris Johnson. Seahawks win this one.

Falcons vs Bucs. Will it be Turner or Snelling in the backfield for the Falcons? It looks like a game time decision. The Bucs are floundering badly. The OC was fired days before the start of the season and now Jim Bates has been replaced with Junior Morris calling the defense. Wasn't that what he was hired to do a year ago? The Falcons are trying to get over the stigma of never having back to back winning seasons in their franchise history and currently sit at 5-5. Matty Ice has suffered somewhat of a sophomore slump at quarterback this season. The Falcons are going to win this but I'm taking the Bucs +13 in my parlay.

Jets-Panthers. The Panthers have actually been playing better in the past few weeks, and the duo in the Carolina backfield will have success against a weak D-Line of the Jets. Steve Smith gets shut down by Jets CB Revis, but nothing new there. Carolina is playing in the Meadowlands, temps are in the mid 50's and light winds. They win by a field goal.

49'er's vs Jaguars. This in my mind is one of the most difficult games this week to forecast. Both teams are all over the radar screen. Early injury reports show that MJD and MSW both missed some practice this week and are now listed as probable with knee ailments. Jacksonville has not had a very good record traveling West this season, but I sense they know they are deep in the hunt for a wildcard spot and will pull out a win on their trip to Nancy Pelosi's hometown.

Chargers vs Chiefs. I look like Einstien this week after taking the Chiefs +11 last week and they won straight up. I'm taking the Chiefs +14 again this week but the Chargers will win this game.

Colts vs. Texans. These two teams played 3 weeks ago, and the Texans missed sending that matchup into overtime by a very nearly missed wide left field goal attempt as time ran out. These two teams know each other very well. Indy beat the Texans week 9 at home by 3, beat the Patriots by 1 and went on the road a beat the Ravens by 2. I'm picking the Texans to beat the Colts this week and I'm taking the 4 points the Texans are getting.

Titans vs Cardinals. The Titans are 4-0 since Vince Young became the quarterback. The Cardinals are 5-0 on the road. Kurt Warner has some injury issues, and the Titans are starting to play some pretty good defense. I'm going with the hot hand and VY to go 5-0.

Steelers vs. Ravens. During the early part of the season, many fantasy football "experts" said they were Wacko for Flacco. Well, they were just plain wacko. Joe Flacco has suffered the same sophomore slump that Matt Ryan has, and isn't putting up the numbers he did in the first month of this season. There were early week questions as to whether or not Big Ben would be starting this week, but all signs seem to point to yes as of now. This will, no doubt, be yet another very close game, but the Steelers prevail and keep marching towards the playoffs.

Monday Night Football
Saints vs. Patriots-

I can't wait to listen to Jon Gruden on Monday night football. I've waited to watch this game since the schedule was released. Prior to the start of the season I predicted a Vikings/Saints NFC Championship game. On week 6 I predicted a Saints appearance in the Super Bowl. This game is going to be a classic. Drew Brees has the quickest release of a quarterback I've seen since Dan Marino. The Superdome is a difficult place to play when the Saints are winning, and this season, the Patriots are 1-3 on the road. I expect a very high scoring game, but the Saints advance to 11-0 after winning 37-31.